Millions live with the pain of arthritis, which is a general term used to describe more than 100 diseases. Since there is no cure, treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. Treatment may include diet, exercise, medication and sometimes surgery. Arthritis patients may also benefit from glucosamine. Before starting any treatment program, it is important to have the type of arthritis properly diagnosed. In addition, glucosamine can cause side effects and interact with other medications currently being taken.
Identification
The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joint wears away, leaving bone to rub on bone. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the synovial lining of the joint. Both can cause pain, swelling and joint deformity but for different reasons. There are several other forms of arthritis that can also cause a variety of symptoms. Diagnosing the type of arthritis that is causing symptoms determines whether glucosamine is an option.
Osteoarthritis
Since glucosamine is a natural compound that is found in healthy cartilage, it works best in cases of osteoarthritis, states MayoClinic.com. In addition, patients who seem to receive the most benefit are those who take a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Glucosamine is produced by the body and mixes with glucose and glutamine to make cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate, which is not made in the body, gives cartilage more elasticity and helps the cartilage to retain water. A combination of the two may slow the deterioration of joint cartilage, which can relieve osteoarthritis pain, reports Arthritis Today Magazine.
Considerations
There are many forms of glucosamine, and not all of them are effective. Glucosamine sulfate appears to provide the most relief for those with osteoarthritis. Since rheumatoid arthritis and other forms are not caused by a loss of cartilage, glucosamine does not appear to be effective at managing symptoms in these other types. According to MedlinePlus, it does not even relieve symptoms in all cases of osteoarthritis. Some osteoarthritis patients get no relief at all. Glucosamine does take time to work, so it may be necessary to take it for three to six months before noticing results.
Solution
Glucosamine should be taken in oral form because there is no evidence to support the use of topical products. For most, it is necessary to take 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams daily. The exact mechanisms as to how glucosamine helps is not well understood. However, the Cleveland Clinic suggests that in some patients it is just as effective as anti-inflammatory medications, without causing the same side effects arthritis drugs cause. It can be taken in one dose each day or split into three doses taken throughout the day. While glucosamine appears to be safe, it can cause stomach upset, heartburn, indigestion, gas, bloating and diarrhea. It can interact with other medications and raise blood sugar levels, and its safety has not been proven in women who are pregnant and breastfeeding. It is always best to use any supplement under medical supervision.
