Produced naturally by your body, glucosamine helps protect your joints by promoting the growth of a tough connective tissue called cartilage. Adding a glucosamine supplement to your daily diet may be particularly beneficial if you have a chronic joint condition, such as osteoarthritis. Treatment with glucosamine may help reduce joint swelling, pain and stiffness, making it easier for you to move about normally. The most common forms of glucosamine supplements are glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. If you have questions about using glucosamine supplements, contact your physician.
Warnings
Only a medical professional familiar with your medical history can recommend a proper daily dosage of glucosamine. The amount of glucosamine you need to take may vary depending on your health status and age. For these reasons, seek guidance from a doctor before taking glucosamine supplements.
For Osteoarthritis
Health professionals with the University of Maryland Medical Center recommend taking glucosamine hydrochloride or sulfate three times daily. Alternatively, a once-daily dose of 1,500 mg of either form of glucosamine may be appropriate for certain people. Usually, daily treatment with glucosamine is recommended for 30 to 90 days to reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. You may be able to take glucosamine for longer than 90 days, but only if your doctor recommends this form of treatment.
For TMJ Arthritis
Arthritis that affects the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ -- more commonly referred to as the jaw -- can cause jaw swelling, popping, grinding or clicking. You may also find it difficult to open or close your jaw, which can interfere with your ability to eat or chew. Treatment with three daily doses of 500 mg of glucosamine may help you manage your jaw discomfort.
Potential Side Effects
While taking glucosamine, you may experience mild to moderate adverse side effects. Digestive discomfort is the most common side effect, which may be characterized by heartburn, nausea, constipation or diarrhea. Infrequently, skin reactions, headache or drowsiness may also arise during treatment with glucosamine. Seek care from your physician if any of these side effects become severe or do not subside.
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