Astaxanthin for Management of Inflammation in Knee Osteoarthritis

Plain-language summary

Over 30 million Americans are currently affected by osteoarthritis (OA), with prevalence expected to increase 40% by 2025 as a result of the aging population and obesity epidemic. Specifically, symptomatic knee OA is a leading cause of disability. Although originally classified as non-inflammatory arthritis, recent studies suggest that a relationship exists between joint inflammation and OA. Specifically, the complex interaction between sites of local tissue damage and immune cells leads to a state of chronic joint inflammation which may play a key role in disease pathogenesis. The evidence suggesting a role of inflammation in disease progression makes anti-inflammatory agents ideal candidates for symptom management. Astaxanthin, a keto-carotenoid present in many aquatic animals, including salmon, shrimp, and lobster, is an FDA-approved nutraceutical that has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties coupled with remarkable safety and tolerability. This prospective, blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study will evaluate the effect of astaxanthin in reducing inflammation, controlling pain, and improving physical function in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis awaiting total joint replacement surgery. Levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines will be measured following the completion of a daily oral regimen of astaxanthin vs. placebo. Additionally, patient-reported outcome measurements assessing physical function and pain interference will be obtained prior to and following completion of treatment allowing for a comparison between treatment groups. Study outcomes will provide evidence to support astaxanthin supplementation as a cost-effective, added strategy for symptom management in patients with advanced osteoarthritis.

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