Molecular Hydrogen Shows Promise in Preventing Steroid-Induced Bone Damage
Published Study: February 2, 2017
Introduction
Steroid medications, while effective for treating various conditions, can sometimes lead to a serious side effect known as osteonecrosis—a condition where bone tissue dies due to reduced blood flow. This is particularly concerning for young individuals who require long-term steroid therapy. A study conducted by researchers at Xi’an Jiaotong University explored whether molecular hydrogen could offer protective benefits against this condition.
Study Overview
In this study, 60 rabbits were divided into two groups: one received steroids to induce osteonecrosis, and the other received the same steroid treatment along with molecular hydrogen injections. The hydrogen was administered daily for a week. Researchers then assessed the bone health of the rabbits, focusing on signs of osteonecrosis, oxidative stress, blood vessel damage, and cell death.
Key Findings
Reduced Incidence of Osteonecrosis: Only 28.6% of rabbits treated with molecular hydrogen developed osteonecrosis, compared to 68% in the group that did not receive hydrogen.
Lower Oxidative Stress: Markers indicating oxidative damage were significantly lower in the hydrogen-treated group.
Improved Vascular Health: The hydrogen group showed fewer signs of blood vessel injury in bone tissue.
Decreased Cell Death: There was a notable reduction in the number of dying bone cells among rabbits treated with hydrogen.
Implications
These findings suggest that molecular hydrogen has the potential to protect against steroid-induced bone damage by mitigating oxidative stress and preserving blood vessel integrity. While this study was conducted on animals, it opens the door for further research into molecular hydrogen as a preventive treatment for patients undergoing long-term steroid therapy.
Conclusion
Molecular hydrogen demonstrates promising protective effects against bone damage caused by steroid use. Further studies, particularly clinical trials in humans, are necessary to confirm its efficacy and safety as a therapeutic option.
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