Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Arthritis

Many people have heard about glucosamine and chondroitin for osteoarthritis treatment. But are they effective at relieving pain and stiffness? Read more to find out.

Osteoarthritis and the associated symptoms can be debilitating. While there are many treatments to choose from, many are ineffective. Chondroitin and glucosamine is a popular supplement that boasts to relieve joint pain. However, the research is actually more mixed than popularly reported. It is essential to understand the research glucosamine and chondroitin to better understand how effective it is.

Glucosamine and chondroitin, often referred to as chondroitin sulfate, are naturally occurring compounds found in the body. Chondroitin is usually found in cartilage around joints but can also be made in the lab. It can be taken by mouth for osteoarthritis or used as eye drops for dry eyes and cataract surgery.

Glucosamine is another compound naturally found in cartilage. It can also be harvested from shells of shellfish or made in the lab. It can also be taken orally and has been implicated in the treatment of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is caused by overuse, which in turn causes degenerative changes in the bone and cartilage of the joint. Current treatment consists of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and supportive rehabilitation, like exercise. While these medications are over the counter, they are not without their risks. Newer research has focused on medications with lower risk profiles, called symptomatic slow-acting drugs (SYSADOAs). Glucosamine and chondroitin are SYSADOAs.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring compounds in the body. Theoretically, they are thought to be absorbed by the body and then traverse to the joints. They are considered to slow the rate of degeneration in the joint. However, different studies have conflicted as to their actual effectiveness when used for osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are only slightly effective for osteoarthritis symptoms. Glucosamine is somewhat more effective at reducing stiffness than the placebo treatment, and chondroitin is more effective at reducing pain. Still, the Osteoarthritis Research Society International guidelines have not included it in the treatment parameters. Currently, there is not enough evidence for physician societies to definitively recommend either of these treatments.