SUPPLEMENTS FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS:
ARE THEY SAFE AND EFFECTIVE?
Americans spend more money every year on natural remedies for osteoarthritis
(OA) than for any other medical problem. Two of the most popular supplements
are glucosamine and chondroitin—substances that occur naturally in the
body and play important roles in the formation and maintenance of cartilage.
But as supplements, can glucosamine and chondroitin treat OA? Most important,
are they safe?
Osteoarthritis is characterized by a gradual deterioration of cartilage
in the joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin appear to stimulate the production
of new cartilage and help the body repair damaged cartilage. The two compounds
may also have anti-inflammatory properties. A review article in American
Family Physician suggests that glucosamine and chondroitin reduce the symptoms
of OA, though there is no evidence that the supplements slow disease progression
or regenerate damaged cartilage. More studies are underway; meanwhile,
the American College of Rheumatology does not recommend the use of supplements
for OA.
Despite the need for more clinical research, the wealth of anecdotal
evidence may have convinced you to give one or both of these supplements
a try. Iif so, here are some tips for using them safely:
_ Glucosamine and chondroitin should be taken in pill form (not topically).
_ Suggested daily doses are 1,500 mg of glucosamine and 1,200 mg of
chondroitin.
_ Do not take glucosamine if you are allergic to shellfish.
_ If you decide to take glucosamine or chondroitin, do not stop taking
proven treatments, such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs).
_ Tell your doctor if you plan to use an OA supplement, and report
any side effects immediately. People with diabetes need to use extra caution.
Another osteoarthritis supplement—SAM-e—was added to the over-the-counter
market in 1999. Because the quality of the studies on SAM-e for OA is questionable,
this supplement is not recommended as a treatment for OA. Alternative
therapies can be appealing, but discuss your options with your doctor before
beginning any new osteoarthritis treatment.
Excerpted from the 2006 Johns Hopkins White Paper: Arthritis,
copyright Medletter Associates, LLC
Articles Home Page
About Johns Hopkins Health Alerts |
Contact
Us |
Privacy Policy |
Terms of Service |
Medical Disclaimer
