What is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a substance that is naturally produced in the body. It is found in high concentrations in the fluid that surrounds the joints. Glucosamine is also a popular dietary supplement, often taken to relieve joint pain.
Glucosamine supplements are made from shellfish exoskeletons or fermented corn. They are available in tablet, capsule and powder form.
How Does Glucosamine Work?
Glucosamine supplements are thought to work by increasing the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). These molecules are important components of cartilage, which cushions and protects the joints.
Glucosamine supplements are also believed to help repair damaged cartilage and reduce inflammation.
What Are the Benefits of Glucosamine?
Glucosamine supplements are often used to treat osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage.
Studies have shown that glucosamine can help relieve joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. It may also slow the progression of the disease.
In addition, glucosamine may be effective for treating other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. It may also help relieve joint pain caused by exercise or injury.
Glucosamine is generally considered safe when taken as directed. Side effects are rare but may include nausea, heartburn and diarrhea.
Glucosamine may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes drugs. Therefore, it is important to speak to a healthcare provider before taking this supplement.
Pharmacokinetics
Glucosamine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 30-60 minutes.
Glucosamine is widely distributed throughout the body and is found in high concentrations in the fluid that surrounds the joints.
Glucosamine is eliminated primarily through urinary excretion. The half-life of glucosamine is approximately 12 hours.
Glucosamine supplements are a popular treatment for osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage. Glucosamine may help relieve joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and may also slow the progression of the disease. In addition, glucosamine may be effective for treating other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Glucosamine is generally considered safe when taken as directed. Side effects are rare but may include nausea, heartburn and diarrhea.
Dosages
There is no standard dose of glucosamine. Dosages vary depending on the condition being treated.
For osteoarthritis, dosages range from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day. For rheumatoid arthritis, dosages may be as high as 2,000 mg per day.
It is important to follow package directions and speak to a healthcare provider before taking this supplement. Glucosamine is not recommended for children or pregnant women.
Side Effects and Safety
Glucosamine is generally considered safe when taken as directed. Side effects are rare but may include nausea, heartburn and diarrhea.
Glucosamine is not recommended for children or pregnant women.
