Some athletes say that glucosamine helps reduce joint pain.
What Do the Advocates Say?*
For a long time, glucosamine dominated the market among supplements used to ease joint pain. Now, many practitioners prefer to use a combination of both glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Many have found this combination to be effective, particularly for runners, who tend to develop problems with their knees. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are well absorbed by the molecules that make up cartilage. They are not available from food. It is not uncommon to have to take these supplements indefinitely to continue to experience relief.
Recent research has shown that the results of arthroscopic surgery for osteoarthritis in the knee is no different than that of placebo. This gives people further reason to at least give supplements, such as glucosamine sulfate, a try before enduring more invasive, expensive approaches.
*Athletes and fitness advocates may claim benefits for this supplement based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles.
Glucosamine
How Much Is Usually Taken by Athletes?
Glucosamine sulfate, 1,500 mg per day, is effective for reducing joint pain caused by osteoarthritis according to most studies,1, 2, 3 Whether other forms of glucosamine, such as glucosamine hydrochloride, are as effective for joint pain as glucosamine sulfate is unclear at this time, but studies have found some benefits from the use of the hydrochloride form.4, 5 Other uses of glucosamine for sports and fitness, including prevention of joint pain or treatment of sports injuries, have not been studied.
Side Effects
GS may cause mild and reversible gastrointestinal side effects in some cases. In one trial, people with peptic ulcers and those taking diuretic drugs were more likely to experience such side effects.6
In a preliminary study, glucosamine supplements appeared to raise intraocular (eyeball) pressure by an average of about 3 mm Hg in people who had elevated intraocular pressure or a certain type of glaucoma (open-angle glaucoma).7 Therefore, individuals who have, or are at risk of developing, glaucoma should be monitored by a doctor if they wish to take glucosamine.
Animal research has raised the possibility that glucosamine could contribute to insulin resistance.8, 9 This effect might theoretically result from the ability of glucosamine to interfere with an enzyme needed to regulate blood sugar levels.10 However, available evidence does not suggest that taking glucosamine supplements will trigger or aggravate insulin resistance or high blood sugar.11, 12 Two large, 3-year controlled trials found that people taking GS had either slightly lower blood glucose levels or no change in blood sugar levels, compared with people taking placebo.13, 14 Until more is known, people taking glucosamine supplements for long periods may wish to have their blood sugar levels checked; people with diabetes should consult with a doctor before taking glucosamine and should have blood sugar levels monitored if they are taking glucosamine.
In 1999 the first case of an allergic reaction to oral GS was reported.15 Allergic reactions to this supplement appear to be rare.
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
Some GS is processed with sodium chloride (table salt), which is restricted in some diets (particularly for people with high blood pressure).
There have been more than 20 case reports in which the use of glucosamine was associated with an apparent decrease in the efficacy of warfarin (as demonstrated by an increase in the International Normalized Ratio [INR]). Because INR values can fluctuate randomly, controlled trials are needed to determine whether the increased INR values in these case reports were caused by glucosamine. Nevertheless, people taking warfarin should not take glucosamine without consulting their doctor.
Glucosamine is not present in significant amounts in most diets. Supplemental sources are derived from the shells of shrimp, lobster, and crab, or may be synthesized.
The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
