Indication
Indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis of knee, hip, spine, hand, and other locations as a dietary supplement. It is also beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis, sport injuries, migraine, different skin problems (e.g., psoriasis), vascular complications (e. g., atherosclerosis), kidney stones, and inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, leaky gut syndrome).
Pharmacology
Glucosamine is a natural amino-sugar, produced by the body and found in certain foods. It is the most fundamental building block required for biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) like Hyaluronic Acid, Keratan Sulfate, and Chondroitin Sulfate. GAGs binds with protein and form proteoglycans, the essential building block of articular cartilage. When cartilage in a joint deteriorates,Osteoarthritis develops. It also helps to form ligaments, tendon, nails, and various other connective tissues.When we take artificially synthesized Glucosamine Sulfate supplement, it increases Glucosamine level in the body, thus facilitates production and repair of cartilage. Glucosamine also activates chondrocytes in the cartilage which help produce GAGs and proteoglycans.Chondroitin Sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan (acid muco polysaccharide) found in connective tissue, especially in the articular cartilage of all mammals. Chondroitin Sulfate supplement acts similarly as Glucosamine Sulfate, since it also provide substrate for proteoglycans. Chondroitin also protects existing healthy cartilage from premature decline by preventing the MMP (Matrix metalloproteinase) enzyme that breakdowns the proteoglycans.Combining Glucosamine with Chondroitin Sulfate shows synergistic effect. Data supports that this combination has been shown to be very much effective in severe cases of Osteoarthritis that treats both sign and symptoms of Osteoarthritis & modifies disease progression. It prevents Osteoarthritis in case of normal adults. In Osteoarthritic pain it is as effective as NSAIDs with significantly better tolerability and clinical compliance. It is also helpful during the repair phase of musculo-skeletal soft tissue injuries such as tendon or ligament strains
Dosage
1 to 2 tablets, three times daily. Dose may be adjusted according to the response of the drug and body weight. Doses can be tapered after 60 days as per requirement of the individual and for cost convenience. Typical dosage recommendation, based on body weight is as follows-
Under 54 Kg: 1000 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 800 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day
54 Kg to 91 Kg: 1500 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 1200 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day
Over 91 Kg: 2000 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 1600 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day
Interaction
There have been no reports of significant drug interactions of Glucosamine and Chondroitin with Antibiotics, Antidepressants, Antihypertensives, Nitrates, Antiarrythmics, Anxiolytic, Hypoglycemic agents, Antisecretives, Antiasthmatics. Chondroitin may enhance the blood thinning effects of anticoagulants like Warferine,Heparine.
Contradiction
There are no known contraindications for Glucosamine and Chondroitin. But proven hypersensitivity (e. g. allergic to shellfish or sulfur) to Glucosamine and Chondroitin is a contraindication.
Side Effect
Both Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfates are virtually nontoxic. Side effects are rare and are limited to stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea. These usually disappear when the tablet is taken with meals
Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should not supplement with Glucosamine Sulfate or Chondroitin Sulfate. Glucosamine and Chondroitin has not been studied enough to determine their effects on a developing fetus. No studies have evaluated the use of Glucosamine and Chondroitin during pregnancy or lactation. It should be taken with caution and medical advice during pregnancy and lactation.
Precaution
Patients with Diabetes Mellitus are advised to monitor blood glucose levels regularly when taking Glucosamine. No special studies were formed in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency. The toxicological and pharmacokinetic profile of Glucosamine and Chondroitin does not indicate limitations for these patients. However, administration to patients with severe hepatic or renal insufficiency should be under appropriate medical supervision.Children should not be supplemented with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
Overdose
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.