Glucosamine Chondroitin

The active ingredients in glucosamine chondroitin are glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and N-acetyl glucosamine are the major salt forms of glucosamine. Glucosamine is found in the body and used to build connective tissue, synovial fluid, and cartilage. Taking glucosamine supplements may slow down the breakdown of cartilage and synovial fluid. Chondroitin sulfate is one of the building blocks of cartilage, so it also helps slow down the breakdown of cartilage. Glucosamine chondroitin may also have anti-inflammatory effects similar to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like celecoxib. Through these mechanisms, glucosamine chondroitin supports the treatment of osteoarthritis pain, knee pain, and joint wellness.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using glucosamine chondroitin. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of glucosamine chondroitin:

• The recommended dose is glucosamine 400 mg by mouth 2 to 3 times a day, and chondroitin 800 to 1200 mg by mouth in divided or single doses. An example glucosamine chondroitin product may contain 500 mg glucosamine and 400 mg chondroitin per caplet or capsule, taken twice a day.
• Be aware if your product contains glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride.
• Glucosamine is made from shellfish, so avoid using glucosamine if you have a severe shellfish allergy.

The most common side effects of glucosamine chondroitin seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Abdominal pain.
• Bloating.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Nausea.
• Heartburn.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using glucosamine chondroitin. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction. Signs include hives, rash, or swelling of the face, lips, and tongue.
• Hepatotoxicity. Signs include yellow skin and eyes, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.

These are not all of the possible side effects of glucosamine chondroitin. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting glucosamine chondroitin, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Shellfish allergy. Glucosamine is made from the shells of shellfish.
• Asthma.
• Diabetes.
• Glaucoma.
• High blood pressure.
• High cholesterol.
• Prostate cancer.

• Allergic reaction to any ingredient in the glucosamine chondroitin joint supplement formulation.

You will start to feel the positive effects of glucosamine chondroitin in 4 weeks of continuous use, although in some people it may take longer.

When glucosamine chondroitin is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Warfarin (anticoagulant). Chondroitin and glucosamine may increase the effects of warfarin, leading to serious bleeding.
• Topoisomerase II inhibitors. These medications are used to treat cancer, and glucosamine may decrease their effects.
• Acetaminophen.

Glucosamine chondroitin is available in multiple doses. The most common doses include 250 mg glucosamine and 200 mg chondroitin per capsule, 500 mg glucosamine and 400 mg chondroitin per capsule, and 750 mg and 600 mg chondroitin per capsule (triple strength).

Store glucosamine chondroitin at room temperature, keep away from children and pets.

Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture glucosamine chondroitin nutritional supplements.

Glucosamine chondroitin is the generic version.

There are no withdrawal symptoms associated with glucosamine chondroitin, but your symptoms of osteoarthritis may worsen. It is always best to consult your healthcare professional before stopping any medication or dietary supplement.

There is limited research about the use of glucosamine chondroitin in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

There is limited research about the use of glucosamine chondroitin in breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.