The present invention relates to 6-phenyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine-4-carbonitrile derivatives having the general Formula I ##STR00001## wherein each of the substituents is given the definition as set forth in the specification and claims, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same as well as to the use of these derivatives for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of cathepsin S and/or cathepsin K related diseases such as osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, inflammation and immune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain.