Undenatured collagen type II for the treatment of osteoarthritis: a review

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition worldwide with rising rates in elderly people. Both mechanical and immunological factors are implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis resulting in destruction of the articular cartilage. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, are associated with several adverse events and also do not affect the underlying disease process. Clinicians and patients both seek options which are safe and effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Collagen derivatives represent a suitable option in such cases. Collagen is the most abundant component of the cartilage. Collage derivatives have shown to have disease modifying action in osteoarthritis. Depending on the degree of hydrolysis and molecular weight, collage derivatives are classified into undenaured collagen, gelatin and collage hydrolysate. Collagen derivatives are well tolerated without major safety concerns. Undenatured type II collagen has shown to provide significant improvement in patients with osteoarthritis. In this article we discuss, the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis with focus on immunological factors and evidence for the use of undenatured collagen type II in osteoarthritis.