[Glycosaminoglycanpolysulfate (GAGPS, Arteparon) for basic therapy of arthrosis. III. Biochemical-diagnostic and clinical studies on the intramuscular use of GAGPS].

Investigations using 3H-Arteparon (3H-glycosaminoglycan polysulfate, 3H-GAGPS) showed that in humans with degenerative joint disease an intramuscular administration of 125 mg GAGPS (0.5 ml Arteparon forte) produces GAGPS concentrations within the joint, which in a biochemical assay inhibit cartilage degrading lysosomal enzymes. The dosage was determined from animal experiments that had indicated the relationship between the applied quantity of the drug and the resulting biological concentrations. Preliminary results of treatment with 0.5 ml Arteparon forte in 15 patients are reported.