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Efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Randomized Controlled TrialModerate evidence

This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.

What the researchers found

Low-molecular-weight collagen peptides (3,000 mg/day) reduced knee osteoarthritis pain and improved physical function over 180 days compared to placebo in a double-blind trial of 80 patients.

Why it matters

Knee OA has few safe long-term treatments. This trial provides controlled evidence that collagen peptide supplements can reduce pain and improve function, offering a low-risk nutritional approach.

The numbers in context

80 adults aged 40-75 with KL grade I-II OA. 3,000 mg/day LMCP vs placebo for 180 days. WOMAC pain change: -1.90 vs +0.61 (P = 0.006). WOMAC physical function and total scores also improved in the LMCP group.

How the study worked

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. 80 participants with KL grade I-II knee OA. Primary endpoint: WOMAC pain. Secondary: VAS, WOMAC function, joint space width, inflammatory markers. 180-day follow-up.

Who was studied

Adults aged 40-75 with Kellgren-Lawrence grade I or II knee osteoarthritis

What this study cannot tell us

Small sample size (80 participants). Only mild OA (KL grade I-II). 180-day duration may not capture long-term effects. Single study needs replication.

Read the original research

Efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Frontiers in nutrition, 12, 1644899

Citation

Park, Sun-Young; Lee, Sang-Hyun; Kim, Hyun Tae; Park, Hye-Jin; Kim, Do-Un; Kim, Seung Un; Heo, In. (2025). Efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight collagen peptides in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.. Frontiers in nutrition, 12, 1644899. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1644899