Glucosamine and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) are marketed as dietary supplements and not medicines and are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration as strictly as they would be if marketed as medicines. Because of this, there isn't the breadth of research to back the claims made by their manufacturers about their health benefits.
Glucosamine Sulfate
Of the two types of glucosamine marketed as supplements used to fight inflammation and joint pain and in some cases osteoarthritis, glucosamine sulfate has been found to be effective in treating all symptoms. Evidence even shows that glucosamine sulfate supplements may halt the deterioration of knee cartilage in patients being treated for osteoarthritis. Although tests show promise scientists from the University of North Carolina say there's still not enough evidence to make a sound judgment about the efficacy of the supplement.
Glucosamine Hydrochloride
Glucosamine hydrochloride doesn't appear to be as effective in treating joint pain or osteoarthritis. Only one clinical trial has shown that glucosamine hydrochloride may be beneficial to osteoarthritis patients, though even these benefits have been deemed minor.
MSM
Studies indicate that MSM effectively works as an anti-inflammatory and as an antacid, as well as a powerful antioxidant. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, MSM has been used to treat arthritis as well as muscle pain and cramping from overtraining or heavy exertion. While the sulfate in MSM is presumed to combat sulfur deficiencies in joints affected by arthritis, there have been few clinical studies to determine the efficacy of MSM treatment on joint pain.
Dosage
Patients are recommended to take 500-mg glucosamine supplements three times a day to receive its benefits, according to the University of Michigan. The Iowa State University Extension advises patients to receive 1 to 2 grams of MSM each day, although some of this is available through raw fruits and vegetables.
Side Effects
MSM is one of the least toxic substances -- rated about as toxic as water -- so no ill effects have been associated with MSM treatments. Glucosamine treatments are sometimes associated with mild gastrointestinal problems, although these issues disappear when the supplement is discontinued. In rare cases, patients exhibit an allergic reaction to glucosamine.
References
- Harvard Medical School Health Beat: Do Calcium an Vitamin D Really Fall Short? What About Glucosamine
- American Medical Association: Glucosamine and Chondrotin for Treating Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
- University of Michigan Health System: Glucosamine
- Iowa State Extention: MSM
- Rutgers University: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
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