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. The mechanisms of action for glucosamine include maintaining elasticity, strength and resilience of the cartilage, the inhibition of proteolytic enzymes (elastase, hyaluronidase) and promotion of glycosaminoglycan and proteoglycan synthesis.