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Advice About Taking Nutraceuticals for Osteoarthritis
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Posted on: 11/30/1999
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For many years, doctors have relied upon pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA). But recent studies have shown that the most commonly used drug (nonsteroidal antiinflammatories or NSAIDs) may actually cause even more cartilage loss. Cartilage loss is one of the main reasons OA develops.
More and more studies are showing some nutraceuticals may help. Nutraceuticals are natural plant substances used to promote health and prevent disease. In the case of OA, some of these products may be able to reduce the use of NSAIDs. They have other benefits as well such as delaying the need for surgery.
In this report, Dr. J. J. Clayton reviews and summarizes the most commonly used and studied nutraceuticals for OA. There has been enough positive benefit from some of these products to support larger, more long-term studies.
Currently, glucosamine and chondroitin have received the most attention. But other nutraceuticals used in the management of OA include SAMe, boswellia, collagen hydrolysate, and diacerin. Avocado-soybean, curcum (tumeric), ginger, and evening primrose oil are other nutraceuticals that may have some beneficial effect on OA.
The source and effects of each one of these products is reviewed. Findings from current research are included. So far, clinical trials have been limited but the adverse effects of these nutraceuticals are rare and mild. Dosages recommended are just suggestions at this point until more studies can be done.
Questions still remain about the long-term safety of nutraceuticals. We still don't know if some people are better candidates for nutraceuticals. Perhaps some joints respond better than others to these products. Or maybe the use of nutraceuticals gives the best results when used at certain stages of OA.
More studies are needed to monitor the use of nutraceuticals. Results of using each type of nutraceutical should be compared with results of patients who take NSAIDs and people who do not take anything. This type of study is called a controlled trial. It's really the best way to know if there are real benefits from drugs and substances like nutraceuticals.
The author advises patients to do the following. If your doctor recommends any one of these supplements, purchase them carefully. Look for products from reputable sources. Be patient. It may take several months to see any improvement in symptoms. Watch for results from large, random controlled trials (RCTs). This will help guide the selection of product type and dosage.
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References:
James J. Clayton, BSC(Med), MB, BS. Nutraceuticals in the Management of Osteoarthritis. In Orthopedics. August 2007. Vol. 30(8):624-629.
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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