Cetyl Myristoleate Side Effects

Cetyl myristoleate is used to help ease the pain caused by arthritis and other conditions. It is marketed as a nutritional supplement and has not been received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Association for use as a pain reliever or anti-inflammatory use. It is considered safe and has few side effects.

  1. Causes of Joint Pain

    • Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of joint pain. The cartilage in your joints wears down over time and can cause swelling and stiffness. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in your body. While it is most common in your hands and knees, it can also affect your lower back, neck or hips.

      Other causes of joint pain include injury, overuse, some types of cancer and gout. If your joint pain is severe, you should consult with your physician to rule out any underlying medical condition.

    What is Myristoleate?

    • Cetyl myristoleate is a naturally occurring fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fat oils. A paper by Robert Hesslink Jr. and others, published in 2002 in the Journal of Rheumatology found that cetylated fatty acids may be an alternative to non-steroidal anit-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the relief of arthritis pain.

    Use in Humans

    • Soft gels and creams containing cetyl myrostoeate are used as a nutritional supplement and topical application, respectively. It is recommended that you take two softgels three times each day with meals. Application of the cream onto clean skin is recommended three to four times daily. Several companies market and manufacture cetyl myrotoeate for use in humans.

    Use in Animals

    • Myristoleate is available in a chewable tablet form for use in animals. Dosages vary from one to six tablets a day, depending on weight. It is marketed under the brand name Myristin by the company EHP Products, Inc.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects myristoleate are not usually serious. The most common side effect to the softgels is gas or diarrhea. These side effects usually subside as your body adjusts to the supplement.