Alternatives
to Vioxx
Now
that Merck voluntarily withdrew the drug Vioxx (one of the
most popular arthritis and acute pain drugs) from the market,
many are turning to natural alternatives. The decision to
pull this drug from the market followed a major study which
found that Vioxx, a member of the group of drugs called
COX inhibitors, causes an increased risk for heart attack
and strokes -– 15 cases of heart attack, stroke, or
blood clots per 1,000, or twice the risk when compared with
those who took a placebo. Steven Galson, acting director
of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research acknowledged
that the FDA was "concerned and aware of the potential
for cardiovascular effects with (Vioxx) for quite a few
years." Does this mean that you can trust Vioxx's
sister drug, Celebrex? Probably not. Some say that Celebrex
can cause high blood pressure in some people. There are
safer and more natural options for relieving arthritis pain:
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is technically a form of an amino sugar that
plays a major role in cartilage formation and repair. Glucosamine
stimulates the production of water-binding glycosaminoglycans
and proteoglycans, two essential building blocks of cartilage
and also inhibits the production of chondrocytes, enzymes
that break down cartilage. Glucosamine also appears to suppress
the destructive enzymes collagenase and phospholipase. In
effect, supplementing with glucosamine is akin to giving
your body the raw materials it needs to rebuild cartilage
- but naturally. Glucosamine helps to form tendons, ligaments,
cartilage and nails. Glucosamine has so few side effects
primarily because it is already a natural component of the
body. The only problem with glucosamine is that its natural
production in the body seems to fade with time, injury and
aging. Supplementing with glucosamine can help replace the
deficit and restore the proper glucosamine balance.
MSM
MSM, also known as methylsulfonylmethane, is a major supplier
of sulfur, the fourth most abundant mineral in the body.
It is related to another sulfur compound, DMSO. In animal
studies, joints affected by osteoarthritis have lower sulfur
content. Mice with arthritis, when given MSM, experience
less joint deterioration. The results of a preliminary double-blind
trial stated that patients with osteoarthritis found that
MSM reduced pain after six weeks.
Manganese Ascorbate
Manganese is a mineral essential to the formation of connective
tissue (such as cartilage). Therefore manganese is extremely
helpful in combating Arthritis but there is also evidence
that it promotes keeping bones strong and contributing towards
the prevention of Osteoporosis.
Aloe Vera
Animal studies show that drinking soothing aloe vera can
reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. It
has been used since early recorded history for its first-aid
like properties. Aloe Vera is one of the only known natural
vegetarian sources of Vitamin B12, and it contains many
minerals vital to the healthy function and growth process
of all the body's systems.
Omega
3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 Fatty Acids can not be talked about enough when
it comes to helping out your entire body as well as dealing
with arthritis pain. They reduce inflammation, increase
blood flow as well as promote the reduction of Coronary
Heart Disease. Omega 3 (EPA and DHA) should be taken everyday
even if one does not have arthritis. One should take special
note to avoid Omega 6, as there is anecdotal evidence that
extra amounts can aggravate arthritis and the average diet
is saturated with Omega 6 already. Omega 3 however is generally
in short supply.
Boswellia Serrata (Boswellin)
Boswellia is probably best for Rheumatoid Arthritis, but
due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is also effective
for Osteoarthritis. Boswellia inhibits pro-inflammatory
mediators in the body, such as leukotrienes. Research indicates
that long-term use of Boswellia, as opposed to NSAIDs, does
not appear to cause irritation or ulceration of the stomach.
Niacinamide
This particular form of vitamin B3 may enhance glucocorticoid
secretion, a naturally produced anti-inflammatory adrenal
hormone. In clinical trials, it has clearly been more effective
than placebo and it has very promising effects for arthritis.
William Kaufman, M.D. published detailed observations on
many of his patients with osteoarthritis who took niacinamide.
He documented improvements in joint function, range of motion,
increased muscle strength and endurance.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin needed for the repair
and growth of tissues in all parts of the body. Vitamin
C is essential for the repair and maintenance of cartilage
and bones as well as healing of wounds. It is essential
to form collagen, an important protein used to make tendons,
cartilage, ligaments, skin, blood vessels, and scar tissue.
It also acts as an antioxidant to offset the damage of free
radicals.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays an important role in bone formation and
may also help to reduce the symptoms of Osteoarthritis.
It is also a potent antioxidant and is needed to promote
healthy bone development. Low Vitamin A may lead to reduced
bone mass and consequently osteoporosis.
Vitamin E
Another antioxidant, Vitamin E may be helpful in both the
prevention of and the treatment of Osteoarthritis (pain
relief and increased joint mobility). Vitamin E was tested
against a NSAID (diclofenac) and was found to be equally
as effective. Vitamin E also has many antioxidant properties.
Bromelaine
Bromelaine may be as effective as the NSAIDS, for pain reduction.
It may also help with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Use over time
may also help with connective tissue disorders. It also
appears to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Yucca
According to the study Yucca plant saponin in the management
of arthritis (J Appl Nutr 1975;27:45-50) there is evidence
that Yucca can aid in Osteo and Rheumatoid arthritis. Yucca
may work by blocking the release of intestinal toxins that
inhibit normal formation of cartilage.
