As with any supplement, you should speak with your healthcare provider before taking Osteo Bi-Flex. Your medical history may indicate that it’s not right for you, and it may interact with other medications.
It’s also good to know what’s inside this supplement and what scientific research says about the effectiveness of its ingredients. Because Osteo Bi-Flex is a supplement, it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. However, the components of the drug have been studied.
Osteo Bi-Flex Ingredients
Osteo Bi-Flex offers a variety of formulations that contain multiple ingredients; each is a little different. However, the brand promotes a few compounds as the key ingredients.
Among these are:“Joint Shield"GlucosamineChondroitin sulfateUC-II collagenMethylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Joint Shield
Osteo Bi-Flex promotes “Joint Shield” as its main ingredient, a proprietary blend of compounds that includes 5-Loxin Advanced—Boswellia serrata extract enriched with a compound known as 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA).
5-Loxin is reported to be beneficial for treating osteoarthritis of the knee. In one study, it reduced pain and improved physical function in osteoarthritis patients by controlling inflammation. Though researchers say it is safe, they err on the side of caution, saying that it may improve joint health.
“Joint Shield” is found in most Osteo Bi-Flex products, though they differ slightly in the secondary ingredients. Each of these also has been reported to have some positive effects on osteoarthritis symptoms to varying degrees.
Glucosamine
Along with chondroitin, glucosamine has long been recommended as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Its actual effectiveness is under debate and can vary from one supplement manufacturer to another.
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in human cartilage that is responsible for fluid surrounding the joints. In supplements, glucosamine is either lab-generated or derived from shellfish shells. For people who have shellfish allergies, glucosamine could be problematic. It’s important to read labels carefully if this is a concern for you.
Chondroitin
Another natural compound found in the cartilage, chondroitin, helps retain water in joints. In supplements, the most common source of chondroitin is animal cartilage.
UC-II Collagen
This is undenatured type II collagen that has been known to support joint health. It is included in several Osteo Bi-Flex products. In supplements, it is most often derived from chicken sternum cartilage. UC-II collagen has shown positive results in independent studies of osteoarthritis treatment.
A study tested the effects of UC-II collagen in patients with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis of the knee and found that patients who took UC-II collagen reported a significant improvement in physical function, stiffness, and pain compared with patients who were given a placebo or a combination of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate.
MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is often sold alone as a dietary supplement for different health conditions, including osteoarthritis. Some Osteo Bi-Flex products contain it and typically say “with MSM” on the package.
MSM is a compound that contains sulfur, which is required by the body’s connective tissues. It is thought to fight inflammation, though one study found the benefits to be minimal. It also notes that the clinical significance of MSM and osteoarthritis is unknown.
Warnings and Interactions
Just because a dietary supplement is sold over the counter does not necessarily mean it’s safe for you.
Talk to your healthcare provider before taking Osteo Bi-Flex. There may be an ingredient in one of the various formulations that may be problematic given your medical history or medications and supplements you’re taking.
Some potential concerns to be aware of:
Allergies: Shellfish allergies are a concern with some Osteo Bi-Flex products. Also, some people have allergic reactions to glucosamine (which can be derived from shellfish) or chondroitin. Pregnant or nursing: It is recommended that people who are pregnant or nursing should consult their healthcare provider before taking any Osteo Bi-Flex products. Drug interactions: The anticoagulants Coumadin (warfarin) and Mirador (anisindione) can interact with this product. If you take any medications, check with your healthcare provider before taking Osteo Bi-Flex. Glaucoma: Glucosamine may increase eye pressure. If you have glaucoma, talk to your doctor before using Osteo Bi-Flex. Overdose: Do not take other products that contain glucosamine or chondroitin while taking Osteo Bi-Flex. Doing so can result in an overdose. Signs of glucosamine toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and lack of appetite. Blood sugar: Glucosamine can alter glucose metabolism. People with diabetes, prediabetes, or hypoglycemia should monitor their blood sugar more closely while taking products containing glucosamine. Liver disease: People who have chronic liver disease should speak to their healthcare provider before taking products containing glucosamine. Research suggests glucosamine may be associated with elevated liver enzymes in people with pre-existing liver disease.
A Word From Verywell
Many people dealing with osteoarthritis have found some relief through the regular use of Osteo Bi-Flex. It is available in a variety of formulas, and most require just one or two caplets to be taken daily.
The American College of Rheumatology notes that these products might not work for everyone and emphasizes that since these products are not checked by the FDA, they might have serious side effects.
While there are studies that back up the benefits of some ingredients found in Osteo Bi-Flex, the supplements themselves have not been tested. Now that you know what’s inside this supplement, you can have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider about whether they’re right for you.
