In-vivo evaluation of chondroprotective activity of Ariflex tablet in comparison with aceclofenac tablet and chondroitin sulfate/glucosamine (CG) in monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis in rats

Background: Degenerative changes in a joint subsequent to alterations in cartilage formation equilibrium lead to development of osteoarthritis (OA). Aims: Chondroprotective activity of Ariflex tablet (a polyherbal formulation) was evaluated in comparison with chondroitin/glucosamine and aceclofenac in monosodium iodoacetate-induced OA in Wistar rat models. Materials and Methods: A total of 42 animals were divided into seven groups, viz., four control groups [negative, positive, standard and vehicle controls] and three test groups [low, medium, and high dosages]. Animals in seven groups were treated with various study drugs for the period of 28 days. In this study period, measurement of body weight and knee joint swelling was done periodically. Gait score was recorded on the last day, and histopathological examination of joints was done after sacrificing the animals. Results: Chondroprotective activity of medium and high dose of Ariflex tablet was comparable to that of aceclofenac and superior to chondroitin + glucosamine combination. In few rats of medium and high dose of Ariflex tablet groups, chondrocyte regeneration and formation of new blood vessels were seen, which indicated possibility of chondrocyte regeneration activity of Ariflex tablet. Conclusion: Ariflex tablet possesses significant chondroprotective activity comparable to aceclofenac and superior to chondroitin and glucosamine combination. There was a possibility of chondrocyte regeneration activity of Ariflex tablet, which can be confirmed by conducting another study with long-term treatment.