The effects of Momordica charantia (bitter melon) supplementation in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis: A single-blinded, randomized controlled trial
Soo May L, Sanip Z, Ahmed Shokri A, Abdul Kadir A, Md Lazin MR
Published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
Methodology
Single-blinded randomized controlled trial of bitter melon supplementation over 3 months in primary knee osteoarthritis, with KOOS, EQ-5D-3L and analgesic scores.
Key Findings
Body weight, BMI and fasting glucose fell significantly in the bitter melon group, with improved KOOS and EQ-5D scores and reduced analgesic use; the placebo group also improved on some subscales but increased analgesic use.
Conclusions
Bitter melon reduced pain-related analgesic requirements and improved symptom scores in knee osteoarthritis.
Limitations
Single-blinded design, placebo group improved on several endpoints, sample size not reported in abstract.
Supplements Studied
Momordica charantia supplementation offers a safe alternative to reducing pain and improving symptoms among the primary knee osteoarthritis patients while reducing the need for analgesia consumption.
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Not reported
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.