Glucosamine and chondroitin in arthritis treatment
Glucosamine and chondroitin, taken either on their own or in combination, have been widely promoted as dietary supplements for osteoarthritis. They have been used as veterinary products to treat arthritis in animals for many years, and have become popular in recent times due to widespread publicity.
Glucosamine and chondroitin both occur naturally in the body and appear to be involved in the formation and repair of cartilage. Taking supplements of these substances is believed to improve the formation of substances in the cartilage that are lost in the initial biochemical changes associated with osteoarthritis.
Trial results
Some trials evaluating glucosamine and chondroitin for the treatment of osteoarthritis have shown positive effects, but the beneficial effects may have been exaggerated by poor design in some cases and the fact that studies with negative effects are less likely to be reported.
One review of 16 trials showed that glucosamine was both effective and ‘safe’ for the treatment of osteoarthritis in the short-term. One 3-year study also demonstrated that treatment with glucosamine sulphate significantly improved symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Who should not take glucosamine?
Because glucosamine is an amino sugar, concerns have been raised that it may contribute to insulin resistance, and it should be taken with caution by people with diabetes.
Glucosamine sulphate is made from crustacean shells (shellfish) and people who are allergic to seafood should consult their doctor before taking it. Glucosamine may also cause gastrointestinal upsets, sleepiness, headaches or skin reactions in some people.
Who should not take chondroitin?
People taking blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, should be careful if taking chondroitin, as it may increase the risk of bleeding. It may also occasionally cause stomach upset. It is important that you check with your doctor before using dietary supplements as they may interact with other medication you may be taking.
Both glucosamine and chondroitin are classed as complementary medicines in Australia, and are available as over-the-counter supplements.
Products containing chondroitin made from cow and shark products and glucosamine products come under the ‘listed’ category on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. This means that they are considered ‘lower risk’ ingredients and do not have to be tested with regard to effectiveness. However, they must comply with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Chondroitin must not be extracted from cow products originating in countries where BSE (bovine spongiform encephalitis) is present.
Glucosamine is available in many forms, including glucosamine hydrochloride and glucosamine sulphate. Chondroitin is sold as chondroitin sulphate.
Last Reviewed: 22 October 2004
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