A novel dietary supplement derived from sternum collagen improves the pain, stiffness, and quality of life in persons with osteoarthritis (OA), researchers announced in April 2003.

The findings of Dr. Eric Sheldon, a clinical research investigator at Miami Research Associates, are derived from a placebo-controlled pilot study in sixteen men and women with OA who received the supplement for an eight-week period. The supplement tested is a unique, patented extract of naturally occurring type II Collagen, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Hyaluronic Acid named BioCell Collagen II™.

“This preliminary study suggests that BioCell Collagen II has promise in the management of chronic osteoarthritis symptoms,” said 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 daily consumption of BioCell Collagen II led to clinically meaningful improvements that were significantly superior to the group receiving placebo supplements. Additionally, the BioCell Collagen II group had no greater incidence of adverse events or side effects.

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint diseases, 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,” offered Suhail Ishaq, vice president of BioCell Technology in Newport Beach, CA. Glucosamine is derived from shellfish and chondroitin is typically derived from cow cartilage.

The study findings are being submitted for presentation at a national biomedical research conference scheduled for later in 2003. The study was sponsored by BioCell Technology, LLC, Newport Beach, CA. It was conducted at Miami Research Associates, a private clinical research center with over 25 years of experience in conducting clinical trial for pharmaceutical companies.