OptiMSM®Fights Knee Osteoarthritis

OptiMSM®Fights Knee Osteoarthritis

CHARLESTON,N.C.MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) combatspain and improves function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, according to a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage(14:286-94, 2006)(www.intl.elsevierhealth.com).

Fifty patients over age 40 diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis were randomized to receive 3 g twice daily of MSM (as OptiMSM®, from Cardinal Nutrition) or placebo for 12 weeks. The patients were evaluated for pain, stiffness, physical function and total symptoms using the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).The patients were also subjected to laboratory tests to evaluate the safety of the active treatment, and to measure serumhomocysteine (an amino acid, high levels of which have been linked to increased risk of heart disease) and urinary levels of malondialdehyde (a marker of oxidative stress). Compared to placebo, OptiMSM produced statistically significant decreases in pain, significantly improved patients ability to perform daily activities, reduced serumhomocysteine and lowered urinary levels of malondialdehyde when compared to placebo; in addition, no major adverse reactions were reported during the study.

Knee osteoarthritis affects millions of Americans daily lives, and safe, effective options for relieving pain and restoring mobility are limited, said Jeremy Appleton, N.D., director of scientific affairs and research and development for Cardinal Nutrition. The study results provide long-sought validation that MSM is a safe and effective option for people who want to improve their joint health. Whats even more exciting is the secondary outcome surrounding homocysteine levels. The highly significant reduction in homocysteine is important, especially when several mainstream osteoarthritis drugs have been pulled off the market because they increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. By lowering homocysteine, MSM may actually reduce those risks, which is highly desirable in a joint supplement.

For more information, visit www.cardinalnutrition.com or Booth#1127-1129 at SupplySide East.