Glucosamine and Chondriotin
Q: A friend recommended that I take a dietary supplement for my arthritis that contains glucosamine and chondroitin. What are these made of and do they really help?
Affinity's medical expert is Michael Vela, corporate director of Pharmacy for Affinity Health System.
A: Glucosamine comes from crustacean shells and chondroiton comes from shark or other animal cartilage.
Glucosamine is important in slowing the degradation of cartilage and has some anti-inflammatory effects that can help control pain. Chondroiton improves joint and cartilage flexibility and helps protect the tissues and cells from injury by attracting and holding water.
Recently the results of a large study, called “Glucosamine/Chondroiton Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT),” was released. GAIT is the largest study in the United States that reviewed glucosamine and chondroiton for use in knee pain related to osteoarthritis. The trial showed that glucosamine and chondroiton may not help those with mild knee pain due to arthritis but may help in those with moderate to severe knee pain. More research is needed before a definitive conclusion can be made.
Glucosamine comes in tablets or capsules and the usual dose is 500 mg taken by mouth three times a day. Chondroiton comes in tablets or capsules and the usual dose is 400 mg taken by mouth three times a day. Combinations of these can be found in many pharmacies.
The benefits of glucosamine and chondroiton often take five months or more, so be patient.
You should not take glucosamine if you have an allergy to shellfish. Glucosamine interacts with some medications that control diabetes, and both glucosamine and chondroiton can interact with blood thinning medications like Coumadin (warfarin).
There is no information about using glucosamine or chondroiton in children or pregnant women.
Remember, supplements are not created equally! While the FDA has strict guidelines for medications and the quality of the medication, this is not the case with many herbal products and supplements.
Before taking any medication, herbal, or dietary supplements, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
