The chemical glucosamine sulfate occurs naturally in the human body and is found in the fluid that surrounds the joints. It works with other chemicals to build ligaments, tendons, cartilage and the synovial fluid that cushions and protects the knee, hip and elbow joints. The dietary supplemental form of glucosamine sulfate is commonly harvested from shellfish; however, synthetic equivalents are also now available. As with all dietary supplements and medications, consult your doctor before taking glucosamine sulfate.
Main Uses
The primary use of supplemental glucosamine sulfate is in the treatment of osteoarthritis --- the most common form of arthritis. When used in addition to chondroitin --- another natural component of cartilage and joint tissue --- glucosamine sulfate has been shown to reduce the pain of osteoarthritis, especially in the knee. Evidence that glucosamine sulfate reduces pain associated with hip or spine osteoarthritis is not as conclusive. Another possible use for glucosamine sulfate is as a treatment for tempromandibular joint --- or TMJ --- arthritis. This type of arthritis is found in the jaw area and can be painful during common activities such as chewing, talking or yawning. In this case, the evidence of the usefulness of glucosamine sulfate is inconclusive.
Other Possible Uses
There is limited evidence that taking glucosamine sulfate can help in other conditions. Some of these include chronic venous insufficiency; diabetes and related conditions; irritable bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis; and rheumatoid arthritis. More research is needed to better understand the role of glucosamine sulfate in these conditions and diseases.
Side Effects
The side effects of using a glucosamine sulfate supplement are usually mild and may include symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation or heartburn. Rare, more uncommon side effects include skin reactions, drowsiness and headache.
Warnings for Special Populations
Due to a lack of conclusive research, it is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women to take glucosamine sulfate. Also, since many glucosamine sulfate supplements are traditionally derived from the shells of shellfish, any person with an allergy to lobster, shrimp or crab should avoid the use of these supplements.
Medication Interactions
Glucosamine sulfate should not be used while taking the medication warfarin, as this may increase the blood-thinning effect of warfarin resulting in easy bleeding and bruising, which may be serious. There is a moderate indication that glucosamine sulfate supplements may inhibit some cancer-treating drugs. Examples of these include teniposide, etopopside and doxorubicin. Consult your doctor to find out more about possible medication interactions involving glucosamine sulfate.
Considerations
Not everyone who chooses to use glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of any type of arthritis will feel a difference in their pain level. People with severe or long-standing osteoarthritis especially may not find glucosamine sulfate supplementation to be a beneficial pain management strategy.
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