Glucosamine offers relief for knee pain
7 February 2003
Glucosamine hydrochloride can improve mobility and provide some pain relief for people experiencing regular knee pain due to cartilage damage or osteoarthritis, according to Australian researchers.
(Glucosamine is a component of some of the sugars and proteins in joint fluid. Commercial supplements containing glucosamine hydrochloride are available from pharmacies and health food shops, however, they are derived from shellfish and so cannot be taken by people with an allergy to shellfish.)
The researchers' finding follows several recent studies that have shown glucosamine sulphate can delay the progression of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis when used in the long-term.
'For vague, non-specific knee pain and early osteoarthritis, it would be worthwhile trying glucosamine [hydrochloride] for up to 3 months, in doses of 1500-2000 mg per day,' said Dr Carmel Goodman, study author and Western Australian sports physician.
The 46-person randomised, placebo-controlled trial found no difference in the functional and clinical tests between those taking glucosamine (2000 mg daily for 12 weeks) or placebo (a dummy medication). But people reported better pain relief and improved function if they took the glucosamine (British Journal of Sports Medicine 2003; 37: 45-49).
Side-effects were similar in those taking glucosamine and those taking the placebo.
Last Reviewed: 07 February 2003
- 1. Medical Observer Weekly 7/02/03
