Date of Award

2018

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Department Chair

John Cavenagh, MBA, PhD, PA-C

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not curcuminoids are effective in improving physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Study Design: Review of a double-blind randomized control trial, a randomized control trial, and a randomized single-blind placebo-controlled trial.

Data Sources: The articles were found on PubMed and selected based on the relevance to the clinical question and if they were focused on patient-oriented evidence that matters (POEM).

Outcomes Measured: The outcomes were based solely on function measures using a patient rated WOMAC scale (WOMAC function) (patient satisfaction of treatment on a 5-category scale (high, moderate, little, same, or dissatisfaction), an investigator based Clinician Global Impression of Change (CGIC), a 6-minute walk distance), and time spent during a 100-meter walk and going up and down a flight of stairs. This study focuses on the WOMAC scale and time spent during a 100-meter walk.

Results: Kuptniratsaikul, et. al (2014) found that C. domestica extracts were just as effective as Ibuprofen in treating knee OA and had a similar side effect profile, with less GI side effects than ibuprofen. Kuptniratsaikul, et. al (2009) also found that C. domestica extracts seemed just as effective and safe at treating knee OA as ibuprofen, but was not statistically different enough to be definitive. Madhu, et. al found NR-INF-02 to be an acceptable and tolerable option in the treatment of knee OA.

Conclusions: Based on these three randomized, controlled clinical trials, the efficacy of curcuminoids on knee osteoarthritis is likely to be an effective alternative treatment method to improve functionality. The populations studied in these trials were not large and should be considered and addressed in future studies.

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