Fluid around your joints allows them to move freely and painlessly. Glucosamine sulfate is a naturally occurring substance in this fluid. It is commonly used as a treatment for osteoarthritis, for which there is supportive clinical data. The typical dose used in clinical studies for osteoarthritis is 1.5 mg as a single dose, or divided evenly 3 times daily, according to MedlinePlus. Take glucosamine sulfate as directed and only after consulting your doctor.
Significance
Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that supports body movement. It provides a cushion for your joints. Glucosamine plays an important role in building cartilage. It exists in several forms, including glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetyl-glucosamine. Clinical researchers primarily use glucosamine sulfate, according to Medline Plus. Glucosamine sulfate supplements use either a synthetic form, or a natural form derived from shellfish.
Osteoarthritis
Cartilage can breakdown and wear away over time. This can cause osteoarthritis, which usually occurs when you reach middle age or older, according to PubMed Health. Joint stiffness and joint pain are the most common symptoms. According to a study published in the January, 2001 issue of the journal "Lancet," glucosamine sulfate helps control osteoarthritis. The study, conducted by the Bone and Cartilage Metabolism Research Unit at the University of Liege, Belgium concluded that glucosamine sulfate slows joint spacing, joint narrowing and improves symptoms if you have osteoarthritis.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
The temporomandibular joint is where your jaw bone meets your skull on each side of your head, in front of your ear. This joint can cause problems leading to pain, tenderness and difficulty chewing. It can also cause facial pain and headache. This can happen after you have dental work done. Glucosamine sulfate is as effective as ibuprofen in relieving temporomandibular joint pain, according to a study published in the June, 2001 issue of "The Journal of Rheumatology," conducted by the Orofacial Pain Clinic at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada.
Precautions
Glucosamine side effects are generally mild and include nausea, constipation, diarrhea and heartburn. Glucosamine sulfate can raise your blood sugar, so talk to your doctor if you have diabetes. Do not take glucosamine sulfate if you are taking the blood thinning medication Warfarin, the combination increases your bleeding risk. Do not take glucosamine sulfate if you are pregnant or nursing as safety and efficacy data during pregnancy is lacking.
References
- Medline Plus: Glucosamine Sulfate
- Drugs.com: Glucosamine
- "Lancet"; Long-term Effects of Glucosamine Sulphate on Osteoarthritis Progression: a Randomised, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial; J.Y Reginster et al.; January 2001
- "The Journal of Rheumatology," Evaluation of Glucosamine Sulfate Compared to Ibuprofen for the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis: a Randomized Double Blind Controlled 3 Month Clinical Trial; N. M Thie et al.; June 2001
- Mayoclinic.com: TMJ disorders
- PubMed Health: Osteoarthritis; David C. Dugdale; October 2010
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