Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin - What You Must Know

By Amy S. Clark

The human body contains a naturally occurring compound called Glucosamine, which basically consists of glucose and a type of amino acid called glutamine. Glucosamine is also described as a naturally occurring amino sugar that is synthesized from glucose and L-glutamine.

Glucosamine is also known by a number of other names, including: N-acetyl glucosamine, glucosamine hydrochloride, and glucosamine sulfate.

Glycosaminoglycan, on the other hand, is a molecule that is crucial in the formation and/or repair of cartilage and other tissues within the body. As you age, your body's production of Glycosaminoglycan slows down, thus causing bloating and swelling in the joints.

Glucosamine, together with chondroitin, are the building blocks of the cartilage and connective tissues. Glucosamine products are natural components occurring in shellfish harvests.

Glucosamine is commonly used in combination with chondroitin to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Scientific research has established that this combination is effective in successfully treating osteoporosis and ultimately improving or restoring bone function.

Potential Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin

In general, most supplements come with their own risks for adverse side effects. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have shown remarkable results in clinical trials, with the majority of patients claiming no side effects.

However, in isolated cases, some patients may experience a slight elevation in blood pressure, uneasiness, minor breathing difficulties, the appearance of rashes, nausea, mild headaches, as well as an upset stomach or gastrointestinal pains.

One of the most documented side effects of this supplement is soft stools and an increase in intestinal gas, although the risk of this is extremely rare. Clinical studies with animals indicate that glucosamine may have a degrading effect on insulin levels, which can lead to diabetes. Although no such thing has been observed in humans, diabetic patients are strongly advised to exercise caution and closely monitor their own blood sugar levels when taking these supplements.

In addition, those who are on aspirin medication therapy or blood thinners should consult their doctor prior to taking these supplements. Similarly, women who are pregnant or who want to get pregnant must also seek medical advice, as the impact of these supplements on a developing fetus is currently unknown. Children and women who are breast feeding must avoid these supplements entirely.

To date, a number of medical researches continue to evaluate and assess the long-term effects of Glucosamine Chondroitin. However, while long-term repercussions are yet unknown, most doctors agree that the combined benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in osteoarthritis treatment far outweigh any potential side effects.

Glucosamine chondroitin is considerably the single most powerful supplement for maintaining, protecting, and lubricating the joints. Further, glucosamine helps limit joint mobility and thus delay joint cartilage deterioration. A number of studies have documented the efficacy of glucosamine in relieving pain and alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis, although these effects were generally not instantaneous. In addition, Glucosamine is also believed to reduce joint inflammation and inhibit certain enzymes that destroy the cartilage, although further studies on this aspect are needed.

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