This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and comparator-controlled trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of an
enzyme combination, as
Wobenzym, in adults with moderate-to-severe
osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Adults (n = 150) received
Wobenzym,
diclofenac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drug,
NSAID), or placebo for 12 weeks. Improvement in
pain scores (Lequesne Functional Index) did not differ between subjects treated with
Wobenzym or
diclofenac, and both treatment groups improved compared to placebo (P < 0.05). Reduction in total WOMAC scores (secondary outcome measure) did not differ between
Wobenzym and
diclofenac, although only
diclofenac emerged as different from placebo (P < 0.05). The median number of rescue medication (
paracetamol)
tablets consumed was less in the
Wobenzym group compared to placebo (P < 0.05), while there was no difference between
diclofenac and placebo. Adverse events were similar in frequency in
Wobenzym and placebo groups (7.2% and 9.1% of subjects, resp.) and higher in
diclofenac group (15.6%).
Wobenzym is comparable to the
NSAID diclofenac in relieving
pain and increasing function in adults with moderate-to-severe painful knee OA and reduces reliance on
analgesic medication.
Wobenzym is associated with fewer adverse events and, therefore, may be appropriate for long-term use.