Background/Objectives: Ambroxol is a mucolytic agent widely used in the treatment of respiratory diseases; however, evidence in the literature indicates anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immunomodulatory properties, suggesting potential for therapeutic repositioning. This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of ambroxol in an experimental model of osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: Adult male Wistar rats underwent OA induction on day zero (D0) by sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA) injection and were allocated into the following groups: Healthy, negative control (CTRL−), and groups treated with meloxicam (2 mg/kg) or ambroxol (10, 50, and 100 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally (gavage) once daily for 28 days. Behavioral tests were performed, including rotarod, walkway gait analysis, weight-bearing, Von Frey, and Rat Grimace Scale assessments, along with radiographic and histopathological analyses and quantification of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10). Results: Ambroxol treatment improved nociceptive parameters and motor function, reduced radiographic and histopathological scores, and showed performance comparable to meloxicam in several tests. There was a marked reduction in IL-1β and IL-6 levels, while IL-10 levels were lower in ambroxol-treated groups, suggesting early control of the inflammatory response. Conclusions: The results indicate that ambroxol exhibits antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions and suggest a potential chondroprotective effect, reinforcing its viability as a candidate for therapeutic repositioning in osteoarthritis. Further studies are required to more precisely elucidate its mechanisms of action, define optimal dosing and treatment duration, and support translation to clinical models.
Mesquita et al. (Mon,) studied this question.