Glucosamine and Chondroitin in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Glucosamine and Chondroitin, taken individually or in combination, have been widely promoted as dietary supplements for Osteoarthritis. They have been used as veterinary supplements to treat arthritis in animals for many years, and have become popular in recent times due to widespread publicity. Glucosamine and Chondroitin both occur naturally in the body and appear to be involved in the formation and repair of cartilage. Taking these supplements is believed to improve the formation of cartilage, which is lost in the initial biochemical changes associated with osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine functions as the primary building block for large molecules found in cartilage. When taken orally, glucosamine is absorbed readily into the system and can be traced to cartilage within as little as four hours after consumption.

Chondroitin is a larger molecule also found in cartilage. It has been studied less extensively, but early results show that it seems to work as an anti-inflammatory and pain reducer. Some laboratory studies suggest that chondroitin sulfate may slow cartilage breakdown and even spur cartilage growth.

Strong clinical evidence now supports the use of glucosamine and/or chondroitin in the treatment of Osteoarthritis. Many double-blind trials have shown that these two supplements, used in either monotherapy or in combination, significantly reduce pain, increase joint mobility, and/or show evidence (including X-ray changes) of healing within joints of people with Osteoarthritis.
   
Side effects
Preliminary studies show glucosamine and chondroitin to be safe and well tolerated. Common side effects may include:
     • Nausea
     • Diarrhea
     • Gastrointestinal upset

These side effects are reported in a small portion of patients. However, even substances that are found naturally in the body can have unpredictable results when taken in higher than normal quantities and in different formulations. This is particularly true with patients who are taking multiple medications or who have other diagnosed illnesses. For example:

• Studies suggest that glucosamine may increase insulin resistance. For this reason, diabetic patients should use glucosamine sulfate with caution and only under medical supervision.
 
• Patients on blood thinners (anticoagulants) should use chondroitin only after discussing and receiving approval from their physician

• Glucosamine is made from crustacean shells (shellfish) and people who are allergic to seafood should consult their doctor before taking it.


How should these supplements be taken?
• Typical dosage is 1500mg for glucosamine and 1200mg for chondroitin, taken once daily. For body weight less than 100 lbs, the dose is generally reduced to 1000mg for glucosamine and 800mg for chondroitin.

• Duration of treatment has not yet been determined.
 
• Reported improvement (e.g. reduction in painful symptoms) varies from three weeks to as much as eight weeks.
 
• Some studies have shown continued improvement of symptoms after oral intake was stopped.
 
• Generally, if there is no pain reduction after two months, there is little chance of improvement.
 
Patients should start a diary of their symptoms when treatment begins to better judge any changes in pain level or joint movement. This information should be shared with their physician.

As with all the products sold on our website, it is essential that you contact your family physician before initiating treatment with glucosamine and chondroitin. Failure to do so could result in significant risk to your health.

Dr. Dennis Padla