shark cartilage

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

shark cartilage is thought to include several substances that may act as anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic agents. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), chondroitin sulphate, and calcium are some of these substances.  

shark cartilage supplements are touted as a natural treatment for cancer, arthritis, and joint discomfort, although they can be used for a variety of conditions. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Nausea 

Upset stomach 

Vomiting 

Pain or swelling in the upper right part of the abdomen 

Diarrhea 

Yellowing of skin or white parts of eyes 

Weakness 

Constipation 

Dizziness 

Excessive fatigue 

Dysgeusia 

Low blood pressure 

Dark urine 

Extreme itchiness 

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• Supplements containing shark cartilage should be avoided by those who are allergic to shellfish or seafood as they may cause an allergic reaction. 
• People who have immune system problems like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis should use shark cartilage supplements cautiously because they may influence the immune system. 
• Supplements containing shark cartilage may have anticoagulant qualities, which can cause blood to thin and raise the risk of bleeding. Before taking a supplement containing shark cartilage, individuals who are using blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin should consult their healthcare physician. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: N/A 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology 

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are complex carbohydrates and essential elements of connective tissues like cartilage and bone, can be found naturally in shark cartilage. GAGs are thought to have immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory effects. 

Pharmacodynamics 

Diverse proteins, including angiogenesis inhibitors, which are substances that can stop the development of new blood vessels, are also found in shark cartilage. This is crucial because cancer cells need a constant flow of blood to develop and spread. As a result, research has been done on shark cartilage as a potential anti-cancer agent. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

It is thought that the small intestine is where chondroitin sulphate from supplements derived from shark cartilage is absorbed. However, due to its high molecular weight and frequent oral administration of big molecules that might not be readily absorbed, its bioavailability may be constrained. 

Distribution 

After being absorbed, chondroitin sulphate is dispersed throughout the body, including to the tissues of the joints, where it is thought to aid in reducing swelling and promoting healthy joint function. 

Metabolism 

The body does not considerably metabolise chondroitin sulphate. 

Elimination and excretion 

The urine is where chondroitin sulphate is predominantly eliminated. The precise excretion mechanisms and rates for chondroitin sulphate from supplements derived from shark cartilage, however, are not fully known. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Supplements containing shark cartilage can be found in a range of formats, including liquids, tablets, capsules, and powders. Usually, they are ingested with water. 

Supplements containing shark cartilage are frequently taken along with other supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, to support joint health. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: shark cartilage 

Why do we use shark cartilage? 

shark cartilage includes chondroitin sulphate and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are thought to support healthy joint function and lessen inflammation.  

shark cartilage supplements are therefore frequently utilized to treat the joint pain and stiffness brought on by osteoarthritis. Supplements made from shark cartilage have been investigated for their potential to help skin health.  

Angiogenesis inhibitors are substances found in shark cartilage that can stop the development of new blood vessels. This is crucial because cancer cells need a constant flow of blood to develop and spread. As a result, supplements made from shark cartilage have been investigated as potential cancer preventives.