Chondroitin is a naturally occurring molecule that helps keep your cartilage strong. Chondroitin's role is to aide cartilage in the absorption of water and block enzymes that result in cartilage breakdown. If you have osteoarthritis, you are highly susceptible to cartilage damage. Taking a chondroitin supplement may help slow the progression of osteoarthritis and prevent further damage.
Dose
Some manufacturers list chondroitin as chondroitin sulfate on packaging labels. The supplement comes in both tablet and capsule form for daily use. According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, the recommended daily dose of chondroitin for adults is 1,200 mg, taken in three 400 mg doses over the course of the day. The chemical structure of chondroitin supplements varies, depending on the manufacturer, which can affect absorption rates and the amount of time it takes for your body to begin feeling the effects of the chondroitin. It usually takes several weeks for noticeable benefits to develop.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine is another supplement used for the treatment of osteoarthritis. It is common to see combination supplements that contain both glucosamine and chondroitin, and some manufacturers also add manganese to the mix. It is important to read the packaging label before purchasing these chondroitin combination supplements. While maximum daily dosage of chondroitin is 1,200 mg, the maximum daily dosage of glucosamine is 1,500 mg, and your daily dose of manganese should not exceed 11 mg. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some manufacturers add more than the recommended dose of manganese to their chondroitin supplements. For this reason, a combination that does not include manganese may be a better choice.
Missed Doses
If you miss a dose of chondroitin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you remember the missed dose close to the time that the next dose is due, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences recommends taking the next dose only. Never take double doses or more than the recommended daily dose. Taking more than the recommended daily dose of chondroitin will not increase the effects of the supplement.
Side Effects and Interactions
The only known side effect associated with chondroitin is mild stomach upset. If chondroitin supplements make you feel nauseous, speak to your physician before continuing. If you take blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends speaking to your physician before taking chondroitin. Chondroitin may enhance the effects of some blood thinners, and it may also reduce the need to take higher doses of NSAIDs.
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