[4] Diacerein works by blocking the actions of interleukin-1 beta, a protein involved in the inflammation and destruction of cartilage that plays a role in the development of symptoms of degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Due to its specific mode of action, which does not involve the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, diacerein has been shown to have anti-osteoarthritis and cartilage stimulating properties in vitro and animal models.

[citation needed] The most common side effects of diacerein treatment are gastrointestinal symptoms including soft stools and diarrhea.

[6][7] An uncommon side effect is hepatic adverse events (most frequently reported as liver function test abnormalities).

This effect is due to the elimination of rhein metabolites via the urine and no clinical significance has been found; it may also be dependent on general fluid intake.