Effects of fucoidan from Fucus vesiculosus in reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis: a randomized placebo-controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
Preliminary investigation of a fucoidan with demonstrated reduction in the symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip and knee.


METHODS
A double-blind randomized controlled trial was carried out to determine the safety and efficacy of a 300 mg dose of a Fucus vesiculosus extract (85% fucoidan) over a 12-week period in a population (n=122) with mild-to-moderate OA of the hip and knee as measured by the validated instrument "Comprehensive Osteoarthritis Test." Safety was measured by assessing cholesterol, liver function, renal function, and hematopoietic function, and closely monitoring adverse events.


RESULTS
Ninety-six participants completed the study. The reduction in symptoms of OA was not significantly different from the placebo response. There were no changes in the blood measurements that were of any clinical significance during the course of the study.


CONCLUSIONS
The F. vesiculosus fucoidan extract was safe and well tolerated. At a dose of 300 mg, the extract showed no difference in reduction of OA symptoms from the placebo.
NatMed-Research Unit, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
Stephen P
SP
Myers
NatMed-Research Unit, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
Ann M
AM
Mulder
NatMed-Research Unit, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
Don G
DG
Baker
NatMed-Research Unit, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
Shelley R
SR
Robinson
University Centre for Rural Health, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
Margaret I
MI
Rolfe
NatMed-Research Unit, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
Lyndon
L
Brooks
Marinova Pty Ltd, Cambridge, TAS, Australia.
J Helen
JH
Fitton
clinical trial; joint pain; polysaccharide; seaweed