Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a member of the family of molecules known as glycosaminoglycans. This family also includes chondroitin sulfate and some other large carbohydrate-containing molecules. Hyaluronic acid is an important component of the connective tissue that fills the spaces between cells of the skin and other tissues, and is a major ingredient of the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions joints as well as the vitreous humor that fills the inner chamber of the eye.1

Where is it found?

Hyaluronic acid is produced in the human body and is found in the tissues of all animals. A nonanimal source of hyaluronic acid can be synthesized by bacterial fermentation.

Hyaluronic acid has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings Health Concerns
3Stars

Dry eye syndrome (topical)
2Stars

Gingivitis (topical)

Skin ulcers (topical)

Wound healing (topical)
1Star

Osteoarthritis
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the human body and is not considered an essential nutrient. However, hyaluronic acid levels in osteoarthritic joints are below normal.2

How much is usually taken?

Amounts for oral supplementation have not been established, due to lack of research, and it is unknown whether hyaluronic acid can be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Topical products are applied in the mouth two or more times per day, to the nose three to four times per day, or with bandaging for skin ulcers. Eye drops containing 0.1 to 0.4% sodium hyaluronate are used three or more times per day, and ear drops containing 1% sodium hyaluronate are used once a day.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

A controlled study reported that males taking 600 mg per day of hyaluronic acid for four weeks had higher blood levels of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase.3 The significance of this finding is unclear.

There have been anecdotal reports of skin rash following oral supplementation with hyaluronic acid.4

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with hyaluronic acid.

References

1. Laurent TC, Fraser JR. Hyaluronan. FASEB J 1992;6:2397-404.

2. Tehranzadeh J, Booya F, Root J. Cartilage metabolism in osteoarthritis and the influence of viscosupplementation and steroid: a review. Acta Radiol 2005;46:288-96 [review].

3. Bates B. Supplements trigger potassium, alkaline phosphatase changes. Skin and Allergy News 2003;July:43.

4. http://www.raysahelian.com/hyaluronic-acid.html, accessed May 13, 2006.