Study supports Biocell’s collagen ingredient for joint health

Daily supplements of Biocell Technology's Collagen II were effective in improving measures of joint health in people with osteoarthritis, say top-line results from the company.

Results of a multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed that the company’s Collagen II ingredient was associated with significant improvements in measures of joint health, by improving various physical activities, as measured by VAS and WOMAC scores.

"I am particularly excited about these findings because they confirm earlier studies and offers further support that BioCell Collagen II is a safe and effective alternative to prescription drug products. Qualitative and quantitative outcomes from this study indicate improvement in pain, stiffness, mobility, and overall improvement in quality of life,” said Joosang Park, VP of scientific affairs for BioCell.

The ingredient is reported to be composed of a minimum 60 per cent hydrolyzed collagen type II, 20 per cent chondroitin sulphate, and 10 per cent hyaluronic acid (HA).

Market growth

As populations age, the burden of osteoarthritis is growing. Over 20 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, and is reported to be second only to ischemic heart disease as a cause of work disability in men over 50. According to the Center for Disease Control, the direct and indirect costs are estimated to be approaching $90 billion.

Pharmaceutical solutions include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are seen by many as daily necessity to control pain and allow people to carry out their everyday activities. Some NSAIDs, which are among the most frequently prescribed medications worldwide, have been linked with gastrointestinal toxicity, increased blood pressure, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

On the back of such undesirable side effects, natural or naturally sourced supplements are increasing. In addition to showing the efficacy of the company’s ingredient, the trial’s results also support the safety and tolerability of the Collagen II ingredient, said BioCell.

The new study involved 80 patients with an average age of 55 and is said be the largest human study to date of BioCell Collagen II.

NutraIngredients-USA.com has not seen the full data. Park explained that the study’s full findings will be submitted to a peer-review journal and that a manuscript is in preparation.

"We have always believed in BioCell Collagen II’s potential to make a difference in peoples’ lives. We are pleased with the results of this study and look forward to presenting the full study results,” said Suhail Ishaq, executive vice president of BioCell Technology.