Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common disabling condition, for which no effective therapy currently
exists.Synovitis is commonly demonstrated in knee OA imaging. Methotrexate (MTX) helps to
decrease synovitis in many inflammatory joint diseases, particularly rheumatoid
arthritis.Accordingly,the aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy of MTX in
decreasing pain and inflammation.Eighty-eight patients with clinical and radiographic
criteria of primary knee OA with knee pain, were included in this study.Patients meeting the
eligibility criteria were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 25mg/week oral
MTX(n=44)or placebo(n=44)for 16 weeks. The primary outcome measure was pain reduction and
secondary outcome measures included improvements in physical function scores.There was a
statistically significant reduction in pain and improvement in function in the MTX group
compared to the placebo group at 16 weeks.
Phase:
N/A
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria University of Alexandria