The compound glucosamine is naturally found in cartilage, the connective tissue responsible for cushioning healthy joints like the knees and shoulders. The monosaccharide, made up of glucose and glutamine, helps in the formation of new cartilage tissue as wear and tear breaks it down. As you age, your body's ability to create new cartilage may slow or stop, leading to osteoarthritis of the joints.
History
Clinical studies on the effects of glucosamine on joint health began in the United States in the 1980s. While glucosamine has been clinically prescribed in Europe since the 1960s, its popularity in the United States did not come until the mid 1990s upon publication of the book "The Arthritis Cure" by Jason Theodosakis. According to the University of Washington Department of Family Medicine, glucosamine is the most popular dietary supplement in the U.S.
Medical Uses
Glucosamine is primarily taken as a supplement to treat or prevent osteoarthritis, especially of the knee and hip. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that glucosamine may help reduce pain, swelling and stiffness and improve joint function for up to three months after treatment stops. Several studies on the effects of glucosamine on osteoarthritis patients have been conducted with mixed results, and future studies are required to conclusively determine the benefits and safety of the various forms of glucosamine supplementation. Early research has indicated glucosamine may help in treating inflammatory bowl disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, but further clinical trails are necessary.
Dietary Sources
Glucosamine comes primarily from the exoskeletons of shellfish such as shrimp, lobsters and crabs. Because the compound is not found in edible food sources, it must be taken as a supplement. Supplements can be taken as a tablet, capsule or powder, often containing manganese or chondroitin sulfate as well.
Dosage
For the treatment of osteoarthritis in adults, 500mg doses of glucosamine should be taken three times per day for one to three months, recommends MayoClinic.com. The effects of glucosamine supplementation on children under the age of 18 have not been studied, as osteoarthritis typically occurs in adults.
Drug Interactions
Taking glucosamine may reduce the necessary dosage for blood sugar-lowering medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. No evidence exists to support the additive effects of glucosamine taken in combination with chondroitin, commonly found in glucosamine preparations.
Warning
While the side effects of glucosamine supplementation are minor, such as upset stomach, indigestion and diarrhea, you should always consult your health care provider before taking glucosamine. The supplement may cause insulin resistance and increase the risk of bleeding, so individuals with diabetes or bleeding disorders, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under the age of 18, should avoid taking glucosamine.
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