Indications
Glucosamine sulphate is used to ease pain and stiffness of mild to moderate osteoarthritis, especially of the knee. It is often combined with Chondroitin or Diacerein. Creams containing it are rubbed on painful joints.
How It Works
Glucosamine is a natural building block of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones in a joint. Taking it is thought to support cartilage repair and reduce the breakdown that causes pain. The benefit is modest, varies from person to person and takes several weeks to appear.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: usually 1500 mg a day, taken once a day or split into 2 or 3 doses, with food. Combination tablets and creams: follow the label or the doctor’s advice. Creams are usually rubbed gently onto the joint 2 or 3 times a day. If there is no improvement after 2 to 3 months, talk to the doctor about whether to continue. Not for children.
Interactions
Glucosamine may increase the effect of Warfarin and raise the risk of bleeding; the INR should be checked if it is started or stopped. It may slightly affect blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
Contraindications
Allergy to glucosamine or any ingredient. Many products are made from shellfish, so people with a shellfish allergy should avoid them unless the product is labelled shellfish-free.
Side Effects
Usually mild: nausea, heartburn, stomach discomfort, diarrhoea or constipation, headache, drowsiness and skin rash. The cream may cause mild skin redness.
Get urgent medical help for swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread rash, or unusual bleeding or bruising if you also take Warfarin.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is not enough information on its safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is best avoided at these times.
Precautions and Warnings
Use with care if you have diabetes, asthma, or kidney or liver problems. It does not give fast pain relief; a separate pain reliever may still be needed. Keep up weight control and exercise advised for joint health. Do not apply the cream to broken skin or near the eyes.
Overdose
Serious harm is unlikely. Too much may cause stomach upset, headache or drowsiness. Seek medical advice if worried.
Therapeutic Class
Medicine for osteoarthritis (cartilage support, slow-acting).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.