Hidden Dangers in Arthritis Supplements
Share
If you take over-the-counter (OTC) supplements for joint pain like Artri King, Ardosons, or Ajo Rey, you may think you’re using a natural remedy. But recent research has uncovered a troubling truth: some of these supplements secretly contain strong prescription drugs called glucocorticoids (a type of steroid).
These hidden ingredients can cause serious health problems. This article explains the risks and what you can do to protect yourself.
What Are Glucocorticoids?
Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones that help reduce inflammation. Doctors often prescribe them for conditions like arthritis, asthma, or autoimmune diseases. However, they come with side effects and must be used under medical supervision.
When these steroids are secretly added to supplements without your knowledge, you could be unknowingly putting your health at risk.
What Are the Health Risks?
The study found that many people who used these tainted arthritis supplements developed two major problems:
- Cushing Syndrome (CS): This happens when your body has too much steroid hormone. Symptoms include a round face (moon facies), weight gain around the belly, purple stretch marks, easy bruising, and a fatty hump on the upper back.
- Adrenal Insufficiency (AI): After stopping the supplement, your body may no longer make enough of its own steroid hormone. This can lead to fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even life-threatening situations if not treated.
In a group of 12 patients studied:
- 83% showed signs of Cushing Syndrome
- 67% had symptoms of adrenal insufficiency
- 83% needed prescription steroid treatment after stopping the supplement
Why Is This So Dangerous?
When you take glucocorticoids for a long time, your body’s adrenal glands stop producing natural cortisol. If you suddenly stop taking the supplement (not knowing it had steroids), your body can’t keep up—leading to adrenal crisis, which is a medical emergency.
Also, these effects can last a long time. Some patients in the study needed steroid replacement for more than a year. A few were still not recovered even after 3 years.
What Should You Look Out For?
If you or someone you know is using OTC arthritis supplements, be on the lookout for:
- Sudden weight gain, especially around the face and abdomen
- Purple stretch marks
- Weakness or tiredness that doesn’t go away
- Nausea or low blood pressure after stopping a supplement
If these symptoms occur, see a doctor and mention any supplements you're using.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
Here are some practical tips:
- Avoid unregulated supplements: Many products labeled as "natural" or "herbal" may contain hidden drugs. Stick to well-known brands with transparent ingredients.
- Report all supplement use to your doctor: Even if a product seems harmless, your doctor needs to know.
- Don’t stop suddenly: If you’ve been taking a supplement regularly and start feeling unwell after stopping, seek medical attention immediately.
- Ask for testing: If you suspect something’s wrong, your doctor may order cortisol tests or special hormone tests to check for adrenal problems.
The Bigger Picture
The inclusion of hidden steroids in OTC supplements raises serious safety concerns. Many users—especially those without regular access to medical care—may never realize they’re at risk until they’re seriously ill.
This problem isn’t just about individual health. It’s about improving regulations and raising public awareness so these dangerous practices stop.
Final Thoughts
Natural remedies can be helpful, but not when they hide powerful drugs inside. If you use OTC arthritis supplements, be informed, be cautious, and talk to your doctor.
Your health is too important to trust to a label.