Curcumin extract (Curcugen®) reduces knee osteoarthritis pain vs placebo
Published 2021
Study Design
- Population
- 101 adults with knee osteoarthritis (radiographically confirmed)
- Design
- Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group
- Dosage
- 1000 mg/day Curcugen® (two 500 mg doses/day)
- Duration
- 8 weeks
Citation
Nutrients (2021).
Authors: Adrian L. Lopresti, Stephen J. Smith, Susan Jackson-Michel, Tegan Fairchild
Affiliation: Murdoch University, Western Australia; et al.
Plain takeaway
Over 8 weeks, Curcugen® significantly reduced knee pain and improved function versus placebo in adults with knee OA.
Study context
Hypothesis: Standardized curcumin extract (Curcugen®) will reduce pain and improve function in adults with knee osteoarthritis compared with placebo.
Objective: To evaluate 8-week efficacy and safety of Curcugen® (500 mg twice daily) on knee OA symptoms.
Abstract
In an 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (n=101), Curcugen® (1000 mg/day) produced statistically significant reductions in KOOS pain and numeric pain ratings, with favorable trends on functional outcomes. The product was well tolerated.
Methods & Controls
Participants received Curcugen® or matching placebo. Outcomes included KOOS pain, numeric pain ratings, JOA knee score, PROMIS-29, and performance tests (40 m walk, 6-min walk, Timed Up-and-Go, 30-s chair stand).
Controls: Matching placebo capsules; allocation and participants blinded.
Key outcomes
- KOOS knee pain score — significant reduction vs placebo (p=0.009)
- Numeric knee pain ratings — significant reduction vs placebo (p=0.001)
- Functional test improvements — several measures favored curcumin vs placebo
- Safety — generally well tolerated; no serious adverse events
Summary & Interpretation
This 8-week RCT in 101 adults with radiographic knee OA tested Curcugen® 1000 mg/day versus placebo. Curcugen® resulted in greater reductions in KOOS pain and numeric pain ratings and showed advantages on several functional measures. The extract was well tolerated. While the trial was relatively short and used a single brand, findings support curcumin’s short-term analgesic and functional benefits in knee OA.
Funding & Conflicts
Funding: Study authors disclose industry relationships as per journal statement.
Conflicts: Disclosures reported in manuscript.