Patient Education | Glucosomine/Chondroitin

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of the joints. Although sometimes capable of causing acute inflammation, it is most commonly a "wear-and-tear" disease involving degeneration of joint cartilage and formation of bony spurs within various joints. Trauma to the joints, repetitive occupational usage, and obesity are risk factors. Most people over 60 years of age have osteoarthritis to some extent. The main goal of treatment is to relieve pain.

In recent years, glucosamine and chondroitin have been widely promoted as a treatment for OA. Glucosamine, an amino sugar, is thought to promote the formation and repair of cartilage. Chondroitin, a carbohydrate, is a cartilage component that is thought to promote water retention and elasticity and to inhibit the enzymes that break down cartilage. Both compounds are manufactured by the body.

Research Findings

Laboratory studies suggest that glucosamine may stimulate production of cartilage-building proteins. Other research suggests that chondroitin may inhibit production of cartilage-destroying enzymes and fight inflammation too. Glucosamine supplements are derived from shellfish shells; chondroitin supplements are generally made from cow cartilage. Human studies have shown that either one may relieve arthritis pain and stiffness with fewer side effects than conventional arthritis drugs. It may take two months to produce any significant improvement. If you see no effect by then, it's probably best to try a different approach.   Older patients may have more damaged cartilage that is less responsive to the effects of glucosamine.

But two problems remain. First, there has not been enough high-quality or long-range research to determine whether their use is practical. Second, because dietary supplement manufacture is not regulated, product quality (especially of chondroitin products) is not assured.

Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets and powder) of glucosamine at the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of glucosamine.

Safety Considerations

No study so far has found any serious side effects from either glucosamine or chondroitin. The most common side effects are increased intestinal gas and softened stools. There have been no reports of allergic reactions to glucosamine. But since it's made from shellfish shells, people who are allergic to seafood should use it cautiously, watching for reactions, or avoid it entirely. As for chondroitin, it can cause bleeding in people who have a bleeding disorder or take a blood-thinning drug.

Although uncommon, allergic reactions to glucosamine have been reported. Stop taking glucosamine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives.

Herbal / health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.