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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- MedlinePlus.com: Glucosamine Sulfate
- MedlinePlus.com: Chondroitin Sulfate
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Osteoarthritis of the Knee
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The Side Effects of Glucosamine, Chondroitin & Hyaluronic Acid
Glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid are three supplements and treatments used with individuals living with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which cartilage in the joints breaks down because of injury or wear and tear, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Though osteoarthritis is not curable, these substances have been shown to reduce symptoms in some patients. Prior to using these supplements, it is best to consult with a health care professional to avoid any adverse interactions.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in healthy cartilage, according to MedlinePlus.com 1. Glucosamine, typically taken with chondroitin, is used to help treat osteoarthritis, because it is said to strengthen cartilage. Individuals who are allergic to shellfish or have an iodine sensitivity can have allergic reactions to glucosamine, because it is made from the shells of shrimp and other shellfish; MedlinePlus also states that asthma exacerbations have been linked with glucosamine supplementation 1. While this supplement is generally well-tolerated by individuals for 30 to 90 days, adverse effects may still occur. Side effects include nausea, heartburn, constipation and diarrhea; some individuals may also experience temporary raises in blood pressure or heart rate.
- Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in healthy cartilage, according to MedlinePlus.com 1.
- While this supplement is generally well-tolerated by individuals for 30 to 90 days, adverse effects may still occur.
Chondroitin
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Chondroitin also naturally occurs in the body and helps maintain cartilage health. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the substance may also block substances that break down cartilage, further maintaining cartilage integrity. Though studies have yet to prove definitive results, chondroitin is used to help treat osteoarthritis and is usually taken in conjunction with glucosamine. In addition to helping protect cartilage, some studies have shown that chondroitin reduces the pain of osteoarthritis, though more studies need to be performed. Chondroitin has similar blood-thinning properties like the drug heparin and may enhance the effect of other blood-thinning drugs, says the University of Maryland. The supplement may also cause minor stomach upset. MedlinePlus.com lists rare side effects, including bowel changes, swelling near eyes and legs, an irregular heartbeat and hair loss.
- Chondroitin also naturally occurs in the body and helps maintain cartilage health.
- Though studies have yet to prove definitive results, chondroitin is used to help treat osteoarthritis and is usually taken in conjunction with glucosamine.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in joint fluid; in individuals with osteoarthritis, this substance becomes thinner and eventually there is not enough fluid to cushion the joint, says the American Academy of Family Physicians 3. Injections with hyaluronic acid can be used in treating osteoarthritis to cushion and protect the joint. Side effects of hyaluronate, a typical derivative of hyaluronic acid, include:
- gastrointestinal discomfort
- local skin reactions near the injection site
- itching
- headache,
- pain at the injection site
- says Drugs.com 4
Related Articles
References
- MedlinePlus.com: Glucosamine Sulfate
- MedlinePlus.com: Chondroitin Sulfate
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Osteoarthritis of the Knee
- Drugs: Hyalgan (Hyaluronate): Side effects
- Vasiliadis HS, Tsikopoulos K. Glucosamine and chondroitin for the treatment of osteoarthritis. World J Orthop. 2017;8(1):1–11. doi:10.5312/wjo.v8.i1.1
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Glucosamine and chondroitin for osteoarthritis. Updated September 24, 2017.
- DiNubile N. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate: What has been learned since the Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial. Orthopedics. 2018;41(4):200-7. doi:10.3928/01477447-20180511-06
- Zhu X, Sang L, Wu D, Rong J, Jiang L. Effectiveness and safety of glucosamine and chondroitin for the treatment of osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Orthop Surg Res. 2018;13(1):170. doi:10.1186/s13018-018-0871-5
- Kolasinski SL, Neogi T, Hochberg MC, et al. 2019 American College of Rheumatology/Arthritis Foundation guideline for the management of osteoarthritis of the hand, hip, and knee. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2020;72(2):220-233. doi:10.1002/acr.24131
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Don’t use glucosamine and chondroitin to treat patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee. Choosing Wisely. Updated September 11, 2013.
Writer Bio
Jaime Herndon has been writing for health websites since 2009 and has guest-blogged on SheKnows. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and women's studies, she earned a Master of Science in clinical health psychology and a Master of Public Health in maternal-child health. Her interests include oncology, women's health and exercise science.