Velvet antler is the growing antler of deer or elk, sold as a powder or extract for strength, recovery and joint health. A 2012 systematic review found that its claims are not based on rigorous human research.
Also known as: deer antler velvet, elk velvet antler.
The trials below used different powders and extracts; the abstracts we read do not state amounts, so we do not list one.
It is sold in the US as a dietary supplement. Under the 1994 dietary supplement law (DSHEA), FDA does not approve dietary supplements before they are marketed, and the maker, not FDA, is responsible for safety and labeling.
What studies show: a 2012 systematic review of 7 randomized trials (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sexual function and sports performance) found 2 with some positive effects, neither convincing, and 5 with no effect; it said osteoarthritis findings may hold some promise (Gilbey 2012). In a 10-week strength-training trial in 38 active men, velvet antler did not change testosterone, IGF-1, red cell mass or aerobic capacity; the powder group gained more knee strength and endurance than placebo, which the authors said needs confirming (Sleivert 2003). In a 6-month trial in 168 people with rheumatoid arthritis, elk velvet antler did no better than placebo on any measure (Allen 2008).
The sources here do not describe side effects or drug interactions in detail.
We could not find a single published half-life or time to peak for velvet antler that applies to a supplement dose, so we do not list one. It is a mixture of many proteins and other compounds.
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