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):
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.
References: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].