Glucosamine is a natural compound that has a hand in building the connective tissue, known as cartilage, that attaches and protects muscles and joints.^[1] It is derived primarily in polysaccharides (carbohydrates), and in cell membranes.^[2]

Uses

Glucosamine is used for osteoarthritis -- a type of arthritis that breaks down cartilage. It helps promote movement and relieve pain. It also helps foster joint and connective tissue health and wound healing.^{[1, 3]}

Glucosamine can be taken by mouth as glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. N-acetyl glucosamine in available in pill or powder form.

Recommended dosage

The recommended dose for glucosamine sulfate and hydrochloride is 500mg to 1500mg (.5g to 1.5g), three times daily for up to 90 days. You can split your dose throughout the day.^{[1, 2]} Dosing also depends on your health status and type of glucosamine you're taking.

Does it work

Glucosamine and cartilage

Research is mixed regarding the effectiveness of glucosamine for osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is known for reducing stiffness and swelling in the joints and reducing pain. It's especially helpful to those with arthritic or painful joints in the knees and hips. Some studies show that the amino sugar can reducesymptoms months after the end of treatment. A small study found that glucosamine may ease inflammatory bowel disease symptoms, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.^[1]

However, studies fail to show that glucosamine aids in the growth or repair of cartilage or that it prevents cartilage loss. Additionally, there's no evidence that it provides comprehensive pain relief, whether glucosamine was used with or without chondroitin (another polysaccharide in cartilage).

Drug interactions

Glucosamine interacts with certain medications. Do not take the following without first consulting with your health care provider:

Safety and side effects

Side effects that may occur with Glucosamine include:

• Upset stomach
• Indigestion
• Gas
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Drowsiness
• Rash
• Hives
• Itching
• Breathing difficulty
• Chest tightness
• Swelling of the face and mouth

Safety concerns

• Glucosamine is sometimes combined with manganese and chondroitin. Do not ingest more than 11mg of manganese per day.
• Glucosamine sulfate may be rich in sodium and potassium. People who are on a low-potassium or low-sodium diet should avoid it.
• Glucosamine supplements are made using shellfish. Talk to your doctor before taking it if you are allergic to seafood.
• Do not take glucosamine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Glucosamine may cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how you respond to this supplement.
• Glucosamine may raise blood pressure and cholesterol. Have your levels checked regularly.
• Do not take glucosamine if you have asthma.
• Glucosamine may hinder the effects of insulin. Individuals with diabetes should have blood sugar levels checked often.

Considerations

Glucosamine is known for reducing stiffness and swelling in the joints and reducing pain.

• Follow all directions for supplement use, including glucosamine.
• Supplements can act like drugs if they are used in large amounts. Take as directed.
• Inform your health care provider of all supplements and complementary care you use. Discuss proper dosages particular to your symptoms and medical history.
• Safety and consistency of herbs and other supplements are not guaranteed since they are not regulated by the food and Drug Administration.
• Effects of a supplement may vary according to brand and batch.
• Purchase glucosamine from only trustworthy companies.