Chondroitin Sulfate

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What is Chondroitin Sulfate?

Chondroitin was first extracted and purified in the 1960s. Today it is manufactured from natural sources (like shark, beef cartilage or bovine trachea) or by artificial means. Chondroitin is commonly used with glucosamine for improving symptoms and possibly reversing the process of Osteoarthritis.



Side Effects

Headache, motor uneasiness, euphoria, hives, rash, photosensitivity, hair loss, breathing problems, tightness in the throat or chest, worsening of asthma, chest pain, increased blood pressure, edema (swelling), gastrointestinal pain/upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, transaminitis (liver enzyme leakage without liver damaging consequences in patients receiving drug therapy of any kind), increased risk of bleeding, bone marrow suppression, eyelid edema.



Reactions / Interactions

Blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (like Plavix®), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen (like Motrin® or Advil®) and naproxen (like Naprosyn® or Aleve®), hyaluronidase agents (attracted to water), agents associated with sun sensitivity, or herbs or supplements with similar effects (like Ginkgo biloba , garlic, saw palmetto, or alfalfa).



What is Chondroitin Sulfate?

Chondroitin was first extracted and purified in the 1960s. Today it is manufactured from natural sources (like shark, beef cartilage or bovine trachea) or by artificial means. Chondroitin is commonly used with glucosamine for improving symptoms and possibly reversing the process of Osteoarthritis.

Side Effects

Headache, motor uneasiness, euphoria, hives, rash, photosensitivity, hair loss, breathing problems, tightness in the throat or chest, worsening of asthma, chest pain, increased blood pressure, edema (swelling), gastrointestinal pain/upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, transaminitis (liver enzyme leakage without liver damaging consequences in patients receiving drug therapy of any kind), increased risk of bleeding, bone marrow suppression, eyelid edema.

Reactions / Interactions

Blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (like Plavix®), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen (like Motrin® or Advil®) and naproxen (like Naprosyn® or Aleve®), hyaluronidase agents (attracted to water), agents associated with sun sensitivity, or herbs or supplements with similar effects (like Ginkgo biloba, garlic, saw palmetto, or alfalfa).

Safety

Use cautiously if allergic or hypersensitive to chondroitin sulfate products and with shellfish allergy. Use cautiously with bleeding disorders and with blood-thinners like warfarin (like Coumadin®). Avoid with prostate cancer or increased risk of prostate cancer. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Dosage

Adults (18 years and older)

Doses of 200-400 milligrams twice to three times daily, or 800-1,200 milligrams once daily have been used. Higher doses (up to 2, 000 milligrams) may be equally as effective.

Children (younger than 18 years)

Not enough scientific data available.

Evidence

Condition: Osteoarthritis Grade: A

Condition: Bladder control Grade: B

Condition: Coronary artery disease (secondary prevention) Grade: C

Condition: Interstitial cystitis Grade: C

Condition: Iron absorption enhancement Grade: C

Condition: Ophthalmologic (eye) uses Grade: C

Condition: Psoriasis Grade: C

Condition: Muscle soreness (delayed onset) Grade: D

Disclaimer: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Content provided by:

"Content Licensed by Natural Standard. Copyright 2009 by Natural Standard Corporation."


While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy. The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.

Chondroitin Sulfate Articles

  • Side Effects of Glucosamine Chondroitin

    ...ilage, 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 t...

  • Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

    Glucosamine and chondroitin are common over-the-counter supplements that are used to improve joint pain and function in osteoarthritis. However, the effectiveness of these supplements is still in q...

  • Cosamin DS Side Effects

    ... is the brand name of a glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplement manufactured by Nutramax Laboratories, Inc. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements are used for joint health by pe...

  • Side Effects of Glucosamine Chondroitin & MSM Supplements

    ...ge. Glucosamine is regularly mixed with chondroitin that's obtained from articular cartilage (relating to or involving a joint of the body). According to the Mayo Clinic, glucosamine is commonly...

Show More

Chondroitin Sulfate Images

Related Diseases

  • Osteoarthritis

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder.

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  • Glucosamine

    ...esearch supports the use of glucosamine sulfate to treat osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee.

Conversations On Chondroitin Sulfate

  • Supple...what IS it??


    • Posted On March 10, 2009 11:02:04 AM

      ...oogled it Supple contains glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, vitamins C, D, E and a number of the B vitamins (B3, B5, B6 and B12), calcium and magnesium, and a plant extract called rebaudioside-... Read More

    • Posted On March 10, 2009 11:06:09 AM

      ...g, a lot if not most of the Glucosamine Chondroitin compounds are made from shellfish.Mainly shells from crabs, shrimp,lobster, crayfish. I've never noticed any difference using it for knee pain... Read More

  • Glucosamine


    • Posted On July 22, 2007 07:41:10 PM

      ...t to take the combination that also has chondroitin and MSM. For me, the synergy between the three supplements gives the best response. Read More

    • Posted On July 29, 2007 08:11:47 AM

      ..., since were not allergic to shellfish, Chondroitin is not a risk. Chondroitin is, I think, the stuff that comes from shellfish. I think glucosamine might come from somewhere else. Anyway, si... Read More

  • Here's what I found on mild arthistis!!!

    ...formula containing glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate and MSM to nourish and strengthen the joints and bones. I would also add essential fatty acids to the diet in the form of flax oil or...

    • Posted On October 23, 2007 04:52:49 PM

      .... Ken used to take the glucosomine and chondroitin, but it does take several weeks for it to really take effect. Of course once he started feeling better he stopped taking it. Yeah, that help... Read More

    • Posted On October 23, 2007 04:51:06 PM

      back in may i was diagnosed with osteo...my fingers and toes were aching terrible. so, instead of goin the medicine route i bought a chondroitan/glucosimine combo. it takes about 30 days or so to g... Read More

  • joint supplement recommendations?

    ...n taking glucosamine+MSM or glucosamine+chondroitin sulfate for the last 2 years or so (even I though I know large scale trials have yet to definitively prove they really help all but the most s...

    • Posted On February 9, 2008 03:26:38 PM

      I take glucosamine chondroitin, don't really swear by it, I just think of it as a little extra insurance. I haven't gone off of it to see if I noitce any changes. I also take fish oil caps, garli... Read More

    • Posted On February 10, 2008 07:21:29 PM

      ...ee with the Tri-flex. I started taking chondroitin-glucosamine 6 years ago when I was training for my first marathon. My doctor recommended it. I have had knee problems since I was about 14-(o... Read More

  • Joint Support Supplement Alternatives?

    ...When I looked into what glucosamine and chondroitin were, I was completely grossed out (not just because I'm a vegetarian). Has anyone tried any alternative supplements (I've been reading tha...

    • Posted On September 18, 2008 05:37:11 PM

      Oh No... I got the glucosamine/chondroitin because my chiropractor recommended it last year. I really don't take anything (except Ghirardelli, Hershey, Lindt, Dove...) but I did BUY it. Now I a... Read More

    • Posted On September 19, 2008 11:54:23 AM

      Chondroitin sulfate is just sulfated monosaccharides. Glucosamine is typically made from shellfish. Specifically through hydrolysis (breakdown using water) of the exoskeleton. (Since the allergens ... Read More

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