Glucosamine, which is produced naturally in the body, plays a key role in building cartilage; the tough connective tissue that cushions the joints.

Several scientific studies suggest that glucosamine may be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis (OA).

OA is a type of arthritis that occurs when cartilage breaks down and is lost, either due to injury or normal wear and tear. It commonly occurs as people age.

In some studies, glucosamine supplements have decreased the joint pain of OA. Not all studies are positive, however, and several have not found any positive effect from taking glucosamine. It is not clear why the studies have conflicting results. But experts disagree on whether glucosamine is helpful in treating OA.

So far studies have not shown conclusively that glucosamine helps repair or grow new cartilage, or prevents further damage to cartilage. Glucosamine is often taken with chondroitin, another supplement thought to be effective in treating OA. Like glucosamine, chondroitin has conflicting results in studies.

Uses

Osteoarthritis

Results from several scientific studies suggest that glucosamine supplements may be an effective treatment for OA, particularly OA of the knee or hip. In general, these studies suggest that glucosamine:

• Reduces OA pain
• Improves function in people with hip or knee OA
• Reduces joint swelling and stiffness
• Provides relief from OA symptoms for up to 3 months after treatment is stopped

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