Glucosamine is a compound found in healthy cartilage, and some people take glucosamine chondroitin supplements to help with arthritis. The National Library of Medicine (NLM) reports that research supports the idea that glucosamine helps in the treatment of osteoarthritis, particularly if you suffer from arthritis of the knee. Chondroitin is usually taken in combination with glucosamine and is made from shellfish cartilage. Using a supplement like glucosamine chondroitin may mean you have to use less non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for treating arthritis.
Common Side Effects
Some side effects that are common include feeling tired, inability to sleep, skin reactions, sun sensitivity and nail hardening. Temporary increases in blood pressure and heart rate can occur when you take these products.
Digestive Side Effects
Some digestive side effects of glucosamine chondroitin are rare, according to NLM. These include abdominal pain, low appetite, vomiting, nausea, flatulence, constipation, heartburn and diarrhea.
Blood Sugar Effects
NLM reports that glucosamine may inhibit the effectiveness of insulin and other drugs used to control blood sugar levels, although the research on this is very limited. The results of this research seem to show how that when glucosamine is injected it may cause your body to resist insulin. Patients who have diabetes or hypoglycemia should use caution when taking glucosamine/chondroitin. They suggest that if you take insulin, your physician should monitor your condition.
Shellfish Allergies
Since glucosamine chondroitin is often made from shellfish, the Mayo Clinic suggests that you use caution in using this product if you have a sensitivity or allergy to shellfish or hypersensitivity to iodine. Both Mayo Clinic and NLM note that some research suggests there is not enough shellfish allergen in glucosamine products to trigger allergic reactions in patients. EMedTV notes that most people are allergic to the proteins in shellfish and not to the actual shells of lobsters, crabs and shrimp. Glucosamine is derived from the shells. Throat swelling has been reported with glucosamine sulfate in people who are hypersensitive, and there are cases that suggest that asthma exacerbations and glucosamine/chondroitin products are linked.
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