Glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, N-acetyl glucosamine
Origin: Major component of joint cartilage. Supplements are derived from the shells of shellfish such as shrimp, lobster and crab.
Dosage: Capsules, tablets, liquid or powder (to be mixed into a drink); 1,500 mg per day for all forms. Often combined with chondroitin. May take one month to notice effect.
Claims: Slows deterioration of cartilage, relieves osteoarthritis pain and improves joint mobility.
What we know: Glucosamine produced in the body provides natural building blocks for growth, repair and maintenance of cartilage. Like chondroitin, it helps cartilage absorb water and keeps joints lubricated. Similar to NSAIDs for effectiveness of easing osteoarthritis symptoms but may take twice as long as conventional drugs to work.
Studies: This year, results of the NIH Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trail (GAIT) were published. The study of 1,583 people with knee osteoarthritis showed that the supplements were more effective when combined, but that they did not work significantly better than placebo or the NSAID celecoxib in people with mild pain. However, a subgroup of people in the study who had moderate-to-severe pain did show significant benefit, even more than with the NSAID. Half of the study participants will continue to be evaluated for 18 months to see if glucosamine and chondroitin can slow or stop the progression of knee osteoarthritis. A 2005 Cochrane Review of glucosamine analyzed the outcomes of 20 studies comprising 2,570 patients. Glucosamine was found to be safe, but not superior to placebo in reducing pain and stiffness and improving function.
Glucosamine may cause mild stomach upset, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea and constipation, as well as increased blood glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride and blood pressure. Don’t use glucosamine if you are allergic to shellfish.
I'd love to hear from anyone who has had a similar experience? Please help.