Chondroitin is made from the cartilage of cows, pigs and sharks. Methyl sulphonyl methane (MSM) also goes by the names "dimethyl sulphone," "sulphonylbis methane," "methyl sulphone" and "DMSO2." MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound. Chondroitin helps human cartilage absorb fluid into connective tissue. Some studies indicate it can help mitigate the effects of osteoarthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Chondroitin is often mixed with glucosamine supplement, which is made from shrimp and crab shells. All three supplements are widely touted to aid in joint health and in reducing joint pain. In 2001, actors Robert Culp and James Coburn cited in an article in "USA Today" that MSM had brought them relief from osteoarthritis. While no long-term side effects of the supplements have been advanced, Mayo Clinic staff members report more long-term studies need to be done before a definitive answer can be made.
Allergic Reactions
Since chondroitin is made from cow, pig and shark cartilage, anyone with allergic reactions to any of these animals should avoid taking the supplement. Chondroitin is usually mixed with glucosamine, which is made from chitin, a polysaccharide extracted in a laboratory from shell fish like shrimp, crab and lobster. Those allergic to shell fish should also steer clear of the supplement.
Rare Effects of MSM
MSM can cause nausea, diarrhea and headaches. These side effects are reportedly rare, however. According to the Earth Clinic website, however, there has been no long-term research for MSM's use with pregnant and nursing women. There is also inadequate research for MSM's effects on children and on adults with liver and kidney disease.
Anti-Clotting
Chondroitin is an anti-thrombotic (anti-clotting agent), so those who are taking anti-coagulants or those with hemophilia might want to avoid the compound. In combination with glucosamine, the anti-clotting effect could have a multiplier effect when taking such anti-coagulants as aspirin, warfarin (brand name Coumadin) or heparin. Possible accelerated bleeding could also result from interaction with anti-platelet drugs like clopidogrel (brand name Plavix), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (brand names Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (brand names Naprosyn and Aleve).
Rare Effects of Chondroitin
The Mayo Clinic staff reports a long list of other possible (though rare) side effects of chondroitin. They include upset stomach, drowsiness, insomnia, headache, skin reactions, sun sensitivity, hardening of the nails, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, flatulence, constipation, heartburn and diarrhea.
Interaction with insulin
Glucosamine in a chondroitin supplement could lessen the effectiveness of blood sugar medication like insulin, according to the National Library of Medicine. This side effect could even be multiplied when the supplement is used at the same time as diuretic herbs or supplements, according to some preliminary studies reported by the National Institutes of Health.
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