Overview

Cetylated fatty acids are fatty acids mixed with cetyl alcohol in a lab. The most common is cetyl myristoleate. Natural cetylated fatty acids are rare.

Cetylated fatty acids might help lubricate joints and muscles, soften tissues, and increase flexibility. They also might help the immune system and reduce swelling.

People commonly use cetylated fatty acids for osteoarthritis. They are also used for other types of arthritis, knee pain, fibromyalgia, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

  • Osteoarthritis. Taking a specific blend of cetylated fatty acids combined with soy lecithin and fish oil seems to decrease pain and improve knee motion in people with knee osteoarthritis. Also, applying cetylated fatty acids directly to the skin may decrease pain and improve function in people with this condition.
There is interest in using cetylated fatty acids for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Cetylated fatty acids are possibly safe. The European Food Safety Authority considers cetylated fatty acids to be safe when used in doses up to 1.6 grams daily. It's not clear what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Cetylated fatty acids are possibly safe when used for up to 30 days. Some people might be sensitive to creams containing cetylated fatty acids, but they're usually well-tolerated.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Cetylated fatty acids are possibly safe. The European Food Safety Authority considers cetylated fatty acids to be safe when used in doses up to 1.6 grams daily. It's not clear what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Cetylated fatty acids are possibly safe when used for up to 30 days. Some people might be sensitive to creams containing cetylated fatty acids, but they're usually well-tolerated.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if cetylated fatty acids are safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for CETYLATED FATTY ACIDS (CFAs) overview.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of cetylated fatty acids might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.