Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound found in the fluid around the joints. It can also be found in other sources such as shellfish and is sometimes manufactured in laboratories. Glucosamine supplements are often used to relieve joint pain caused by arthritis. According to MedlinePlus, there are three types of glucosamine: N-acetyl-glucosamine, glucosamine hydrochloride and glucosamine sulfate, the most commonly studied type.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
According to the Mayo Clinic, glucosamine sulfate is often taken with chondroitin and is most often used to treat osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. The Mayo Clinic reports that a study of individuals suffering from mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis found that pain relief was experienced while supplementing with glucosamine sulfate. Pain relief of osteoarthritis in other areas of the body has also been found, but more research is needed to draw a conclusion.
How Does Glucosamine Sulfate Work?
Osteoarthritis may wear down and thin out the cartilage surrounding the joints. This can cause pain, stiffness and friction in the joints. According to MedlinePlus, glucosamine sulfate may help relieve joint pain by helping increase the cartilage and fluid surrounding the joints. Researchers believe that it may also help prevent the deterioration of the joint's cartilage and fluid. Research has proven that other forms of glucosamine do not contain sulfate, so they may not be as effective in treating joint pain as glucosamine sulfate.
Dosage
According to the Mayo Clinic, glucosamine sulfate capsules or tablets are often taken in 500 mg doses, three times per day for a total of 1,500 mg. For those who prefer not to take pills, glucosamine and chondroitin combination supplements are also available in beverage form. Joint Juice is a glucosamine supplement drink that contains vitamin C, vitamin D3, green tea extract, glucosamine HCL and chondroitin sulfate. The juice comes in 8-oz. bottles, contains 20 calories and provides the recommended 1,500 mg of daily glucosamine.
Drug Interactions
Individuals taking warfarin, also known as Coumadin, should not use glucosamine supplements. MedlinePlus warns that glucosamine negatively interacts with warfarin and may decrease the clotting process, which could lead to bruising and severe bleeding. Glucosamine has also been found to decrease the effectiveness of some chemotherapy drugs. Cancer patients should consult their physician before using glucosamine supplements. MedlinePlus also recommends diabetes patients monitor their blood sugar closely while taking glucosamine.
Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, side effects of glucosamine supplements are often mild but may include nausea, diarrhea, heartburn and constipation. Other less common side effects include drowsiness, headaches and skin reactions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take glucosamine supplements until further research proves this treatment to be safe while pregnant or breastfeeding. Glucosamine may induce asthma attack, but there is not enough research to prove it. Individuals with asthma are cautioned to avoid glucosamine supplements until further research is conducted.
