Inhibition of tendon cell proliferation and matrix glycosaminoglycan synthesis by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in vitro

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of some commonly u sed non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on human tendon. Explants of human digital flexor and patella tendons were cultured in medium contai ning pharmacological concentrations of NSAIDs. Cell proliferation was measu red by incorporation of H-3-thymidine and glycosaminoglycan synthesis was m easured by incorporation of S-35-Sulphate. Diclofenac and aceclofenac had n et significant effect either on tendon cell proliferation or glycosaminogly can synthesis. Indomethacin and naproxen inhibited cell proliferation in pa tella tendons and inhibited glycosaminoglycan synthesis in both digital fle xor and patella tendons. If applicable to the in vivo situation, these NSAI Ds should be used with caution in the treatment of pain after tendon injury and surgery.