Nutraceuticals and Osteoarthritis
Nutraceuticals as Therapeutic Agents in Osteoarthritis. The Role of Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Collagen Hydrolysate.
Article Summary:
A review of the literature related to studies that examine the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin in the treatment of osteoarthritis. A total of 13 studies were investigated in this meta analysis. Some design flaws were identified in many of the studies, however, all the studies examined showed a large effect for the use of glucosamine and chondroitin in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Glucosamine sulfate was evaluated and found to be more effective than a placebo in all trials examined and equal to or better than ibuprofen in other trials. Chondroitin sulfate was also examined for its effectiveness and found in all trials to be more effective at alleviating pain than the placebo. Although different products vary with respect to how much glucosamine and chondroitin is in the product, the preferred amount appears to be 1500 mg of glucosamine and 1200 mg of chondroitin. The expected amount of cost should be from $30-$45 a month for the product. While extensive reviews of the the side effects of the products are limited, most studies have participants who tolerate the glucosamine and chondroitin well and report few side effects.
Authors:
Deal CL. Moskowitz RW.
Institution:
Division of Rheumatology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Country of Publication:
United States
Source:
Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America. 25(2):379-95, 1999 May.
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