Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides in Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: Long-Term Observation in Postmenopausal Women.

Abstract

BackgroundThe effects of specific collagen peptides on bone mineral density (BMD) in subjects with osteoporosis or osteopenia have already been investigated in 131 postmenopausal women in a randomized controlled trial. The purpose of this follow-up observation was to determine the longer-term effects of the same specific bioactive collagen peptides after a total intervention time of 4 years.MethodsIn this open-label follow-up observation, 31 postmenopausal women with reduced BMD (initial T-score lower than −1 of either the femoral neck or the lumbar spine) completed the follow-up. BMD was measured via dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Absolute changes in BMD and T-scores in the spine and femoral neck were assessed. The number of fractures was also recorded. All participants received specific bioactive collagen peptides.ResultsSupplementation with bioactive collagen peptides during follow-up led to a clinically relevant increase in BMD in the spine. These findings were consistent with the results for the femoral neck.ConclusionsLong-term supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides appears to be effective in counteracting losses in BMD. Moreover, significant increases in BMD could contribute to improved bone stability.