Glucosamine
Indications
Glucosamine is used to relieve the symptoms of mild to moderate osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis), especially of the knee, such as joint pain and stiffness. It is often combined with Chondroitin.
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 as a supplement is thought to support cartilage and reduce joint pain, although the benefit varies from person to person.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: usually 1500 mg once a day, or 500 mg three times a day, with food. It works slowly; it may take 4 to 8 weeks to notice any benefit. If there is no improvement after about 3 months, talk to a doctor about stopping. Not recommended for children and teenagers.
Interactions
- Glucosamine can increase the effect of Warfarin and similar blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding; check with the doctor first and have blood tests as advised.
- It may affect blood sugar control in people taking medicines for diabetes.
Contraindications
Allergy to glucosamine or any ingredient. Products made from shellfish should not be used by people with shellfish allergy. Not for children under 18 years.
Side Effects
Usually mild: stomach upset, nausea, heartburn, diarrhoea or constipation, headache, tiredness and occasionally rash.
Get urgent medical help for swelling of the face, lips or throat, wheezing or difficulty breathing, or unusual bleeding or bruising if you also take a blood thinner.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding because there is not enough information on its safety.
Precautions and Warnings
- People with diabetes should check their blood sugar more often when starting.
- Use with care in asthma, high cholesterol, and kidney or liver problems.
- See a doctor if a joint becomes hot, red or very swollen, as this is not typical of osteoarthritis.
Overdose
Taking too much is unlikely to be serious but may cause stomach upset, headache and joint pain. Seek medical advice if you feel unwell.
Therapeutic Class
Symptomatic slow-acting drug for osteoarthritis (joint supplement).
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.
All brands of Glucosamine