SSR-150106

The primary objective of this study is to assess the reduction of systemic inflammation as measured by serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP).
The secondary objectives are:
* to assess the reduction of systemic inflammation as measured changes in acute phase protein, serum amyloid A (SAA) and cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), and clinical American College of Rheumatology response rate, and morning stiffness duration;
* to assess the effect on pain relief within first 14 days;
* to obtain evidence of the safety and tolerability of SSR150106;
* to document trough plasma levels of SSR150106 and its first metabolite.