A large part of the dietary supplements market are preparations supporting the functioning of joints. They are most often available in capsules, however, those in sachets, oral lyophilisates and effervescent tablets are becoming more and more popular.
One of the most popular ingredients contained in joint support supplements is collagen. Collagen proteins are the structures that most often build human and animal organisms. They are part of connective tissue, skin, tendons, cartilage, ligaments and even cornea, teeth and nails. In total, they constitute 1/3 of all proteins in vertebrate organisms. So far, 29 genetically different types of collagen have been described, however, the most widely studied type is fibrillar-type collagen, because it is 90% of collagen proteins in animal organisms. The group consists of the following types: I, II, III, V, XI, XXIV and XXVII. In contrast, articular cartilage builds collections of type II, XI, IX or II, III.
A common ingredient in dietary supplements is collagen hydrolyzate. Due to the fact that collagen does not contain all the essential amino acids and is sometimes considered a compound with low biological value, it is often a supplement to other proteins. Nevertheless, it is used in drug form technology due to its very good digestibility and tolerability among patients.
According to many scientists, collagen in the form of a hydrolyzate administered orally passes into the bloodstream and thanks to this can be successfully used for medical purposes. In addition, studies show that collagen accumulates in articular cartilage, and its intake stimulates chondrocytes to synthesize macromolecules of extracellular matrix.
According to statistics, 15% of the population worldwide suffers from pain associated with joint diseases of various etiologies. The most common disease entities include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and joint degeneration. Symptoms are particularly severe in older people, professional athletes, overweight patients or people who have suffered injuries. Clinical studies have shown that oral collagen supplementation at a dose of 10g per day is not only safe but effective in reducing arthralgia.
Dietary supplements containing collagen are very popular in the pharmacy and are willingly chosen by patients. Clinical trials prove its effectiveness in the regeneration of cartilage and reduction of joint pain. The pharmacist's role is primarily to advise the patient on the appropriate supplement, taking into account the most convenient way of taking, as well as to inform about the need to use the preparation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
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