Short-Term Effects of Ovomet®, Eggshell Membrane, in Joint Pain. A Double-Blind and Placebo Study

Abstract

Dietary supplements are being extensively used for the treatment of diverse joints disorders. Ovomet®, eggshell membrane, a natural source of glycosaminoglycans such as chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid among other ingredients, has led to the consideration of this product as a potential treatment for joint disorders. On this basis, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the short-term effectiveness of the intake of Ovomet® in volunteers suffering from joint disorders. The double-blind and placebo study consisted on the daily intake of a capsule containing 300 mg Ovomet® or a capsule containing placebo (microcrystalline cellulose) during 30 days. The Womac questionnaire (Western Ontario and McMasters Universities Osteoarthritis Index) was employed to assess joint pain and dysfunction at days 0, 1, 3, 5, 7 and 30. Results showed a gradual and significant decrease in pain and dysfunction since day 3 on while the participant’s intaking placebo did not show changes. Similarly, there was a significant pain improvement in volunteers intaking Ovomet® compared to the placebo subjects from day 3 onwards. The daily intake of 300 mg Ovomet® showed short-term effects within the first three days in reducing significantly joint pain and dysfunction. Moreover, a significant improvement in pain was demonstrated in the Ovomet® group when comparing with placebo treatment. Ovomet® is a viable, fast, effective and safe alternative for the treatment of joint pain associated with joint disorder.