We propose the potential use of andrographolide in Rheumatoid Arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. This is supported by the fact that andrographolide exerts anti-growth and proapoptotic
effects on human rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast- like synoviocytes, the main cellular constituent of pannus, that combined with a massive infiltration of lymphocytes and macrophages,invades and destroys the local articular structure. Recently, a prospective randomized placebo-controlled trial has suggested that A. paniculata, a standardized extract containing NLT 30% of andrographolide was effective for symptom relief in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The use of andrographolide alone or a patented A. paniculata standardized extract in clinical trials shows mild and few side effects, and has the potential to be developed into a new alternative drug for Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment in the long term.
