A newly developed plant-based synergistic natural supplement shows promise in treating gouty arthritic conditions. This supplement aims to enhance the lifestyle of aged, elderly, and compromised patients by restoring locomotion and alleviating associated symptoms such as pain, stiffness in joints, and redness.
Gout and Its Prevalence
Gout, caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood serum, affects a significant portion of the Indian population aged 35 and above. Despite the availability of herbal products targeting gouty arthritis, many lack scientific validation and are based solely on traditional claims. Additionally, existing products often have numerous ingredients, which can complicate their use.
Development of ‘NBRI-Gout Out’
Product Development: CSIR-NBRI, based in Lucknow, has developed a new herbal product called ‘NBRI-Gout Out.’ This supplement combines five medicinal plants specifically aimed at addressing gout. The development was funded under the “Scheme for Young Scientist and Technologist” (SEED Division) of the Department of Science and Technology.
Research and Validation: The herbal remedy, developed by Dr. Ankita Misra (Principal Investigator) under the mentorship of Dr. Sharad Srivastava (Chief Scientist & Head) at the Pharmacognosy Division of CSIR-NBRI, has demonstrated synergistic efficacy in treating gouty arthritis. The product’s efficacy was tested through various in-vitro and in-vivo assays. The safety and toxicity of ‘NBRI-Gout Out’ were also evaluated in animal models.
Efficacy and Benefits
- Reduction in Uric Acid: The product led to an 80% reduction in uric acid levels.
- Decrease in Inflammatory Mediators: There was a 70% reduction in inflammatory mediators such as IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β.
- Symptom Relief: The supplement significantly reduced pain and stiffness in joints, and improved locomotion.
Product Characteristics
- Solubility: Completely water-soluble with no solvent residue.
- Sustainability: Raw materials used are widely available and do not threaten biodiversity.
- Development Mode: Developed in AYUSH mode, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
Commercial Interest and Applications
Two companies have shown interest in commercializing ‘NBRI-Gout Out.’ The supplement can also serve as an adjuvant therapy alongside existing treatments for gouty arthritis, gouty flare-ups, prophylaxis cases, and idiopathic cases with gouty symptoms.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary purpose of the ‘NBRI-Gout Out’ supplement?
- A) To treat hypertension
- B) To address gouty arthritic conditions
- C) To improve skin health
- D) To boost cognitive function
- Which organization developed the ‘NBRI-Gout Out’ supplement?
- A) IIT Bombay
- B) CSIR-NBRI
- C) AIIMS Delhi
- D) DRDO
- What was the reduction in uric acid levels observed with ‘NBRI-Gout Out’?
- A) 50%
- B) 60%
- C) 70%
- D) 80%
- What is the status of the ‘NBRI-Gout Out’ product in terms of commercialization?
- A) Not yet commercialized
- B) Commercialization is not planned
- C) Two companies have shown interest in commercialization
- D) Commercialized and available in all pharmacies
- Which inflammatory mediators were reduced by ‘NBRI-Gout Out’?
- A) IL-2, IL-4
- B) IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β
- C) IL-8, IL-10
- D) TNF-β, IL-12