Eggshell Membrane is an Effective Joint Treatment for Dogs, Says Study

24 Aug 2016 --- Eggshell Membrane brand NEM, has been clinically proven to reduce pain and improve function in dogs suffering with joint problems, according to a new study published in the journal, Veterinary Medicine, Research & Reports.

The 6-week, multi-center, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial was conducted at eight different veterinary clinics to evaluate NEM’s efficacy, safety and tolerability in the treatment of sub-optimal joint function in dogs. 

Fifty-one privately owned dogs with sub-optimal joint function were recruited for the study. 

Sub optimal joint function was measured by observing the dog’s ability to get up from a laying position, noticeable limps, impaired gait, and difficulty climbing stairs.

Each dog received either oral NEM, at 6 mg/lb, or a placebo once daily for 6 weeks.

Changes in joint function, joint pain, and quality of life in the NEM group versus the placebo group were evaluated by both dog owners and veterinarians via either the validated Canine Brief Pain Inventory, or Veterinary Canine Scoring Assessments (VCSA). Additionally, changes in serum levels of the cartilage degradation biomarker, CTX-II, were also evaluated at 6 weeks.

The results showed that supplementation with NEM significantly reduced joint pain and improved joint function rapidly, and also demonstrated a lasting improvement in joint pain, leading to an improved quality of life.

Moreover, a profound chondroprotective effect was demonstrated following 6 weeks of supplementation with NEM (CTX-II). There were also clinically meaningful results from a brief responder analysis, demonstrating that a significant proportion of treated dogs will benefit substantially from NEM supplementation. 

“This canine study on NEM provides further evidence supporting NEM’s ability to modify symptoms of pain, and it provides an alternative to the use of pharmaceuticals which have known detrimental side effects,” said Kenneth J. Kopp, DVM, the lead veterinarian for the trial.

Kevin J. Ruff Ph.D., MBA, CCRP – Sr. Director of Scientific & Regulatory Affairs for Stratum Nutrition, also commented on the study, adding “With so many dogs suffering from sub-optimal joint function, it’s important for dog-owners to have safe and effective treatment options like NEM.”

He continued, “It was particularly gratifying to learn of the chondroprotective effect in this study, as we believe this to be the first of its kind in naturally-occurring joint disease in dogs.”