Collagen product may help osteoarthritis symptoms
pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients, claims maker BioCell
Technology, which suggests the product could be an alternative to
glucosamine supplements.
A dietary supplement derived from sternum collagen improved the pain, stiffness, and quality of life in osteoarthritis patients in a preliminary study, according to new research.
The supplement, a patented extract of naturally occurring type II Collagen, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Hyaluronic Acid named BioCell Collagen II, is manufactured by California firm BioCell Technology, who funded the study.
Researchers from Miami Research Associates carried out a placebo-controlled pilot study in 16 men and women with osteoarthritis (OA) who received the supplement for an eight-week period.
"This preliminary study suggests that BioCell Collagen II has promise in the management of chronic OA symptoms," said lead investigator Dr Eric Sheldon, a rheumatologist and voluntary rheumatology instructor at the University of Miami School of Medicine. "We used a symptom assessment tool that is used routinely in OA drug studies and the results are encouraging."
Sheldon said the data reveal that patients taking BioCell Collagen II daily saw significant improvements compared to the group receiving placebo supplements. The BioCell Collagen II group had no greater incidence of adverse events or side effects.
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis. "We believe BioCell Collagen II is a viable alternative to glucosamine and chondroitin products, especially among those that have a concern or allergy associated with shellfish and cow-derived ingredients," said Suhail Ishaq, vice president of BioCell Technology.
The study findings are being submitted for presentation at a national biomedical research conference scheduled for later in the year.
