Efficacy and tolerability of fixed dose combination of curcumin and piperine in Indian osteoarthritic patients

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Its prevalence is expected to rise due to increase in risk factors such as obesity and sedentary life style. Currently available treatments generally have limited efficacy as they are more focused in controlling disease symptoms. This study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of fixed dose combination of curcumin and piperine in 44 osteoarthritic patients (16 men, 28 women, mean age: 55.5 years). This was a non-randomized, open labeled, non-comparative, single-centric, and post-marketing surveillance study. Informed consent was obtained and study was conducted at R.A. Podar Hospital Mumbai between June-August 2016. Patients were administered a combination of curcumin 500 mg and piperine 5 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. Patients were also provided with NSAIDs as a rescue medication and asked to note daily NSAID consumption in their diaries. WOMAC scores and NSAID consumption was evaluated at baseline and at each follow up visit (i.e. end of week 4, week 8 and week 12). Assessment of WOMAC score at the end of 12 th week showed statistical significant change from baseline with reduction in pain, stiffness and physical function (P<0.001). A trend of decrease in need of NSAIDs was also noted with each follow up visits. Interestingly, when compared the NSAIDs consumption between baselines to the end of 12 th week, significant difference was noted (P<0.012). Three patients reported mild gastrointestinal adverse effects. From this study, it can be concluded that curcumin in combination with piperine is an effective and safe option in the management of osteoarthritis, leading to better disease control, decreased use of NSAIDs and least GI disturbances. Curcumin along with piperine thus represents a new paradigm in the management of OA and therefore should be considered based on its safety and efficacy.