Green-Lipped Mussel

Green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is a New Zealand shellfish, from which an extract has been shown to be useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA).

Where is it found?

Green-lipped mussels are found in the oceans off New Zealand. In supplement form, green-lipped mussel is available as a lipid extract or a freeze-dried powder.

Green-lipped mussel has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Asthma (Lyprinol®) Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Because green-lipped mussel is not an essential nutrient, deficiencies do not occur.

How much is usually taken?

The studies on green-lipped mussel have used 210 mg per day of the lipid extract or 1,050-1,150 mg per day of the freeze-dried powder.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Not all studies have demonstrated side effects; however, members of the Australian Rheumatism Association have reported side effects, such as stomach upset, gout, and skin rashes, occurring in people taking certain New Zealand green-lipped mussel extracts.¹ Another researcher observed nausea, flatulence, and fluid retention in some of the study participants,² and one case of hepatitis has been reported in association with the use of the freeze-dried powder.³

People with shellfish allergy should consult a doctor before taking green-lipped mussel. Compared to lipid preparations, freeze-dried preparations contain substantially more of the protein fraction responsible for allergic reactions.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with green-lipped mussel.

1. Brooks PM. Side effects from Seatone. Med J Aust 1980;2:158 [letter].
2. Gibson SLM, Gibson RG. The treatment of arthritis with a lipid extract of Perna canaliculus: a randomized trial. Comp Ther Med 1998;6:122-6.
3. Brooks PM. Side effects from Seatone. Med J Aust 1980;2:158 [letter].

Last Review: 09-07-2006

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.

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