Barcelona, Spain (PRWEB) November 1, 2007 -- Bioiberica (www.csbioactive.com) supports the growing body of evidence that clinically proves the effect of chondroitin sulfate (CS) and glucosamine (GLU) in slowing the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). Taken together, the extensive body of research confirms the proposition that these supplements have a role to play as disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (the so-called DMOAD effect).

A series of clinical trials, four for CS and two for GLU, have studied the potential of these products to slow down the progression of knee osteoarthritis. With a total of 1046 patients studied using CS and 414 studied using GLU over several years, the results of these studies reached similar conclusions. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease, and the cartilage is eroded over time causing the joint space to be reduced. The studies checked the progression of osteoarthritis by X-rays, which measure the joint space. A narrowing of the joint space signifies disease progression and cartilage loss which as a consequence produces increased pain and decreased mobility. In all four studies the patients treated with CS maintained the joint space, while the placebo group saw a reduction in joint space.

The other two additional studies with GLU published in The Lancet and Archieves of Internal Medicine also concluded that long-term treatment with GLU retarded the progression of knee OA, possibly determining disease modification.

Assessment of disease modifying properties for OA treatment has been difficult in the past because of its complexity. However, recent international consensus establishes that radiography of the knee in the fixed-flexion view provides a sensitive and valid measure of joint space loss in multiyear longitudinal studies of the knee. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agrees that the only well-characterized structure measurement currently available is radiographic JSN of the knee or hip.

Additionally, two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of note, both led by Prof. Verbruggen, have looked at OA in the hands. They were both conducted with CS over a 3-year period and assessed also by X-rays. CS treated patients when compared with the placebo controls, CS did not prevent OA from occurring in previously normal finger joints, but osteoarthritis was less progressive CS-treated patients. The studies were published in Osteoarthritis Cartilage (1998) and Clinical Rheumatology (2002).

In summary, current evidence indicates that oral administration of CS, produces a slow but gradual decrease in clinical symptoms of OA, inducing pain reduction and improvement of functional capacity. This is also supported by a 2001 article in The Lancet, ?Osteoarthritis is a major cause of disability and is among the most frequent forms of musculoskeletal disorders. The goal of pharmacological treatment is usually to control symptoms of the disease, pain, and limitation of function, which is traditionally accomplished by the use of analgesic agents of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).? Alternative methods are available, however, and among these are dietary supplements like CS and glucosamine.

Among CS ingredients available in the marketplace, CSb? Bio-Active, developed by the Spanish company, Bioiberica, has been used in more published studies than any other brand. It was featured in the groundbreaking GAIT (Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention) study and can be found in exclusivity in Cosamin DS in USA. Since the early 1980s, CSb? Bio-Active has helped more than 15 million people worldwide relieve the symptoms of OA.

Bioiberica has become a recognized leader in joint health. Established in 1975, the company has pioneered advancements in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements that have led to the development of a global business in over 40 countries around the world. Dedicated to research, Bioiberica has established itself as on of the most prestigious names in the industry for top-quality active ingredients that are backed by science.

For more information on the science supporting the use of CS, visit www.csbioactive.com.

To arrange an interview with a company spokesperson or a member of the medical advisory panel, please contact Tamara York at ADinfinitum, 212.693.2150, Ext 314, or email at tamara @ adinfinitumny.com.