Glucosamine is a component of numerous preparations recommended for relieving joint pain and supporting the maintenance of their efficiency. Check how glucosamine works, what are the indications and contraindications for taking it.

Glucosaminehas both supporters and opponents. The former believe that glucosamine is good at relieving pain and disability caused by degeneration of the joints, while the latter argue that its effectiveness is comparable to that of a placebo. However, many clinical studies have shown that glucosamine has a beneficial effect on the condition of the joints. This substance is a building block of compounds found in articular cartilage.

During periods of intense physical exertion, greater joint load, overweight and in old age, the body produces less glucosamine than it needs. And if it is missing, the joints are not working properly. Natural sources of glucosamine are crayfish, shrimps, crabs, and clams.

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is an amino sugar that occurs naturally in our body. In preparations it is in the form of glucosamine hydrochloride or sulphate.

Glucosamine - action

Glucosamine is generally well tolerated. It takes part in the synthesis of proteoglycans (building substances of articular cartilage), which allows you to strengthen and even regenerate the affected joints. In people suffering from rheumatic diseases, it can be administered together with painkillers and steroids.

The greatest therapeutic value hasglucosamine sulphatebecause it is highly bioavailable (89% of the active substance penetrates into the bloodstream). This means that almost the entire active substance contained in the tablet is used by our body.

In the preparations available on the market, the therapeutic effect of glucosamine is enhanced by the addition of other substances that positively affect the work of the joints, including chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), collagen.

This substance does not interact with other medications, which is of great importance especially for people who constantly take many preparations due to other diseases.

Glucosamine - dosage

Glucosamine can be taken both orally and by injection. The dose should be adjusted to the patient's age and type of disease. You cansuggest the dosage described in the leaflet attached to the package, but it is best that the dose of glucosamine should be determined by a doctor.

Glucosamine - possible side effects

Glucosamine may cause temporary problems in the digestive system:

  • epigastric pains,
  • flatulence,
  • constipation,
  • diarrhea.

Allergic reactions may also occur:

  • erythema,
  • itchy skin,
  • shortness of breath.

Since some glucosamine preparations are made from the shells of marine organisms, people who are allergic to seafood should be careful (there are also preparations with chemically synthesized glucosamine).

Diabetics cannot use glucosamine preparations without medical consultation, because this substance may contribute to changes in blood insulin concentration.

Glucosamine - contraindications for use

It is forbidden to exceed the permissible daily dose, as well as the period of taking the preparation specified by the manufacturer on the packaging. Breaking this rule may cause side effects.

Due to the lack of studies confirming the safety of glucosamine use, it should not be taken by women in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the remaining period and during breastfeeding, the administration of such preparations should be consulted with a doctor and under his supervision.

Taking these medications does not exempt you from eating a varied diet that contains nutrients for your entire body, including your bones and joints.

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