New Studies Back Effectiveness of Joint Health Supplements 39091

New Studies Back Effectiveness of Joint Health Supplements

EDGEWOOD, Md.Two new studiesconfirm the value of supplemental glucosamine hydrochloride and chondritinsulfate in promoting joint health. The studies, presented at the December 2004World Congress hosted by Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI),showed a combination of the two supplements supports cartilage matrix productionin tendons, ligaments and joints.

In the first study, FCHG49® Glucosamine Hydrochloride andTRH122® Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate (as the proprietary ingredient Cosamin® DSsupplied by Edgewood, Md.-based Nutramax Laboratories Inc.) acceleratedcollagen synthesis in vitro in chondrocytes, tenocytes and ligament cells. LouisLipiello, Ph.D., director of cartilage research at Nutramax and a presenter ofthe study, said in a statement, Collagen comprises a high percentage of thecartilage matrix and a large part of tendons and ligaments, both of which areaccessory structures in the joint, helping to provide stability. By enhancing collagen synthesis, the combination of FCHG49Glucosamine Hydrochloride and TRH122 Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate directlysupports cartilage matrix production and protects cartilage by helping guardagainst instability of the joint. Positive effects on ligaments and tendonscould also be useful in rehabilitation of joints, especially in sports-relatedaccidents. This type of tendon/ligament injury constitutes about 30 to 50percent of all sports-related conditions.

In the second study, the combination of Nutramaxs FCHG49Glucosamine Hydrochloride and TRH122 Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate inhibited invitro breakdown of proteoglycans (PG)vital proteins in cartilage explants. Indamaged cartilage explants, the combination reversed damage of these proteins,restoring them to even greater levels than prior to the damage. The researchersconcluded the combination increased PG levels in normal cartilage and noted theeffects observed were greater than expected from the activity of each individualagent, demonstrating a strong synergistic effect.