Approximately 67 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Numerous over-the-counter products are available to treat the pain of osteoarthritis, but one of the more popular remedies is a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Both glucosamine and chondroitin occur naturally in your body, and taking supplements may help with pain, although there is no conclusive evidence. Glucosamine chondroitin should not replace conventional treatment. Always consult with your doctor first.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a derivative of glucose, a simple sugar found in your blood. Your body naturally makes glucosamine, where it plays a vital part in the making of cartilage, the connective tissue between joints that cushions the bones. New York University Langone Medical Center cites numerous studies with various conclusions to the effectiveness of glucosamine on arthritic joints. There does appear to be some pain relief; however, the effects take longer to manifest than with other pain relievers, such as ibuprofen. Although unsubstantiated, some athletes take glucosamine to prevent injuries to tendons and muscles.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance in your body. It composes part of the cartilage between your bones and acts to draw water and fluid into the cartilage. It also forms the basis from which more cartilage is made and may block certain enzymes that damage the cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate is derived from the cartilage of animals, purified to some extent and then sold as supplements. Chondroitin sulfate appears to help relieve the symptoms of arthritis over a period of time, although there is no evidence that supplements help rebuild damaged cartilage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center and Florida State University.
Recommended Dosage
Glucosamine chondroitin are often packaged and sold as a single supplement. Often, manganese will be included in the supplement. The dosage recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center for glucosamine is 500 mg, 3 times per day. For chondroitin sulfate, the recommended dosage by UMMC is 400 mg, 3 times per day. It cautions if your supplement contains manganese, the daily dosage should not be more than 11 mg per day from dietary and supplemental sources. Always read the label on the supplement bottle and consult with your doctor prior to taking any supplements.
Side Effects and Precautions
Glucosamine is made from the exoskeletons of some shellfish and may cause reactions in those with shellfish allergies. Other side effects may include nausea, heartburn, diarrhea and increased blood glucose levels in diabetics. Chondroitin sulfate is often made from the cartilage of cows. If you are a vegetarian, some chondroitin supplements are available from algae. Side effects include possible allergic reactions such as swelling of the face or airway, abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea.
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