What is "diacerein"

n. A drug, used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, that works by inhibiting interleukin-1.

Diacerein ( INN), also known as diacetylrhein, is a slow-acting medicine of the class anthraquinone used to treat joint diseases such as osteoarthritis (swelling and pain in the joints). It works by inhibiting interleukin-1 beta. A 2005 Cochrane review found diacerein to be slightly, but significantly, more effective than placebo in improving pain and slowing the progress of osteoarthritis in the hip and knee.

Diacerein-containing medicines are currently authorized in the following European Union (EU) Member States: Austria, Czech Republic, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Slovakia and Spain.