Glucosamine and Chondroitin

• Americans spend more on natural therapies for osteoarthritis than any other medical condition. Glucosamine and chondroitin, components of articular cartilage, are most popular.

• Individually, glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to be superior to placebo in decreasing pain in trials of variable quality. Neither show arthroscopic regeneration. Both need to be taken tid for one month until improvement is seen.

• Both are well tolerated, with gi discomfort most common. They are shown to have less side effects than NSAIDS.

• Combination pills have not been shown to be more effective than either pill alone.

• Recommended dosages: Glucosamine: 500 mg TID, Chondroitin: 400 mg TID

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin are safe alternatives in the relief of symptoms of osteoarthritis. Neither has significant side effects or drug interactions.