If you suffer from joint pain or osteoarthritis, you probably have heard about glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for relieving pain and reducing inflammation. While not currently a prescription treatment, these over-the-counter dietary supplements have been evaluated in a large-scale clinical trial, called the GAIT study. Subjects with severe joint pain reported improvements from taking glucosamine and chondroitin. Before starting a supplement, it is important to consider the potential side effects along with the benefits.
Side Effects in GAIT
The results of GAIT, Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial, found significant improvements for individuals with severe knee osteoarthritis pain when compared with placebo groups. This large study had 1,583 participants and minimal negative side effects were reported. Only three cases of negative side effects were related to supplementation -- mainly mild upset stomach. Glucosamine and chondroitin were not associated with elevated blood pressure when taken separately or in combination. Because this study had so many participants with so few negative results, adverse effects are unlikely in the general population.
Reports on Blood Pressure
Certain osteoarthritis medications are associated with an increase in cardiovascular events. Celebrex, or celecoxib, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication that has been linked to heart problems. During the GAIT study, participants receiving this medication were monitored and did not show signs of cardiovascular issues, like high blood pressure. However, if you are taking glucosamine and chondroitin along with celecoxib, you may want to monitor your blood pressure to be on the safe side.
Mechanism of Action
Glucosamine and chondroitin are found naturally in your body. These substances help hold water in the cartilage between your joints. The theory behind supplementation is that increased water retention in the cartilage helps lubricate your joints and protect the cushion between connecting bones. More cushion bring less pain in some people.
Because glucosamine and chondroitin are involved in water retention, the theory is that they may increase water retention in the blood as well. If this occurs, glucosamine and chondroitin will raise blood pressure similarly to the way sodium raises blood pressure, by increasing blood volume. This theory has not been proven and elevated blood pressure should not be a main concern for this supplement.
Proper Dosages
The most commonly recommended dose is 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine and 1,200 milligrams of chondroitin to be taken in divided doses. This means take 500 milligrams of glucosamine along with 400 milligrams of chondroitin three times per day to reach the total daily amount. Always discuss your decision to supplement with your doctor. If you take Coumadin, or warfarin, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may be dangerous for you. Shellfish allergies may also be triggered by these supplements.
