Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common, chronic disease that most frequently affects the knees and is a major cause of disability in the elderly. It is characterized by progressive cartilage loss, accompanied by secondary changes such as osteophyte formation and calcium deposition. Inflammatory processes are also involved, leading to stiffness and pain, for which patients seek treatment. Conventional treatment includes analgesics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, however life-style changes should also be recommended, such as weight reduction and specific exercises. Glucosamine and chondroitin, classed as over-the-counter supplements or nutraceuticals, are regularly self-administered by patients with OA. Both agents are produced endogenously in the human body and are essential components of cartilage. This review discusses the evidence that supports the use of these agents either alone or in combination for pain relief and as disease-modifying agents in OA.

Modern Management of Mild-to-Moderate Joint Pain due to Osteoarthritis: A Holistic Approach

“…10 Glucosamine and chondroitin work slowly, taking a few weeks to become effective and should be given for at least 4 weeks before an assessment is made. 18 The evidence for glucosamine, chondroitin and their combination is reviewed below and confirms their efficacy and safety in the treatment of OA.…”

“…54 Because many of the glucosamine studies have been large scale and for long periods of time, it is not surprising that a meta-analysis provided little additional information. 18 Poolsup et al 55 showed symptomatic relief and delayed progression of knee OA. The risk of disease progression was reduced by 54%, while glucosamine sulphate caused no more sideeffects than placebo.…”

“…It acts as one of the principal substrates during the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid, which are structural components of articular cartilage. 18 …”

Knee osteoarthritis a pathological basis for use of newer drug therapies

“…It also increases the synthesis of collagen. 88 Boron appears to participate in hydroxylation reactions, which play a role in the synthesis of steroid hormones and vitamin D. 59 Low boron intake results in impaired bone health and immune response.…”

Production of N-Acetylglucosamine Using Recombinant Chitinolytic Enzymes

“…It also possesses anti-tumor properties and has also been proposed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Glucosamine which is a derivative of NAG, has been shown to regenerate joint cartilage and is been used extensively in the treatment of osteoarthritis [7]. Presently, NAG is being derived using chemical processes by heating chitin in concentrated hydrochloric acid, which poses great technical and environmental concerns [8].…”