Effects of a Novel Fixed Combination of Nutraceuticals on Serum Uric Acid Concentrations and the Lipid Profile in Asymptomatic Hyperuricemic Patients: Results from the PICONZ-UA Study

Abstract

Introduction: Asymptomatic hyperuricemia is not a current indication for therapy as the definite role of serum uric acid elevation as a cardiovascular risk factor is extremely likely but still controversial. Aim: We designed a double blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study to assess the effects of a combination of nutraceuticals (ZinutriK®, containing a fixed combination of kampferol, baicalin, caffeine, and rutin) on serum uric acid levels, lipid variables and the global cardiovascular risk profile. Methods: Sixteen individuals (mean age 59.0 ± 11.9 years, 4 women) with asymptomatic hyperuricemia completed the study. Results: ZinutriK® treatment (4 weeks) reduced serum uric acid concentrations (from 7.9 + 0.9 to 7.0 + 0.7 mg/dL) when compared to both baseline and placebo (p < 0.006 and p < 0.001, respectively). Compared to both placebo and baseline, the same fixed combination of nutraceuticals also reduced circulating LDL cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol concentrations within 4 weeks (p < 0.001 or less), thereby improving the Framingham risk score (p < 0.001 or less). Neither minor nor major side effects were observed. Conclusions: This study represents the first demonstration that a short-term therapy with a fixed combination of different natural substances can significantly reduce serum uric acid concentrations in asymptomatic hyperuricemic patients, with no side effects and a significant improvement in the lipid pattern and then in the global cardiovascular risk profile.