Introduction Collagen hydrolysate is recognized as a safe nutraceutical, whose combination of amino acids stimulates the synthesis of collagen in the extracellular matrix of cartilage and other tissues. Objective to conduct a systematic review of literature on the action of collagen hydrolysate in bone and cartilaginous tissue and its therapeutic use against osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Method a study of the PubMed, MEDLINE, LILACS, and SciELO databases was performed. Articles published in English and Portuguese in the period of 1994 to 2014 were considered. Results: the sample comprised nine experimental articles with in vivo (animals and humans) and in vitro (human cells) models, which found that the use of different doses of collagen hydrolysate were associated with the maintenance of bone composition and strength, and the proliferation and cell growth of cartilage. Conclusion hydrolyzed collagen has a positive therapeutic effect on osteoporosis and osteoarthritis with a potential increase in bone mineral density, a protective effect on articular cartilage, and especially in the symptomatic relief of pain.