Your body uses glucosamine sulfate to produce chemicals that help build tendons, cartilage, ligaments and the fluid around the joints, according to MedlinePlus. Taking a daily glucosamine supplement -- particularly glucosamine sulfate -- may help prevent breakdown of cartilage and joint fluid and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms. The recommended dosage varies from person to person.
Dosage for Adults
The recommended dosage of glucosamine sulfate for adults is generally 500 mg three times per day for 30 to 90 days, though your doctor may also recommend a once-daily dose of 1,500 mg, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You may also benefit from long-term supplementation if you have persistent inflammation and pain from osteoarthritis. Doses higher than 1,500 mg per day haven't proven safe or effective, but some research has found that dosing 2,000 mg a day for 12 weeks could be effective, according to MayoClinic.com.
Dosage in Children
Glucosamine supplementation isn't recommended for children, as it is usually used to treat osteoarthritis in adults and its safety for children isn't well studied. However, some research pertaining to children has shown a link between MSM -- a compound frequently marketed with glucosamine -- and autism, though researchers aren't sure whether the link is positive or negative, according to MayoClinic.com. Due to such uncertainty, parents are urged to avoid giving their children glucosamine products.
Other Contraindications
Some adult populations should be cautious when considering taking glucosamine supplements. If you have asthma or diabetes, ask your doctor whether glucosamine would be a healthy idea for you, as some reports have linked glucosamine supplementation with harms in certain people with these conditions, according to MedlinePlus. Also seek advice from your doctor if you are currently taking the medication warfarin or if you are taking medications for cancer, as glucosamine may negatively interact with them. No level of glucosamine is recommended if you're breastfeeding or pregnant because insufficient evidence has proven its safety.
Potential Side Effects
Most people can tolerate a supplement of glucosamine sulfate for 30 to 90 days, but some people have reported side effects such as upset stomach, sleeping problems, headaches, skin reactions and sensitivity to the sun, according to MayoClinic.com. Some less common side effects include vomiting, nausea, heartburn, appetite loss, diarrhea and temporary boosts in heart rate and blood pressure. Some animal studies have linked glucosamine supplementation to the formation of eye cataracts, though more research would need to be done to determine whether it is a similar concern for humans.
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