Glucosamine

What is it? Glucosamine is a component of the cartilage in our joints, which helps to provide a cushion between bones. It is commercially produced as a supplement from shellfish shells (shrimp, lobster, crabs), from eggshell membranes, and sometimes by fermentation of grains like corn or wheat. Because glucosamine is a cartilage component, research has focused on its use for those with joint problems.

CONSIDERED USES:

Genitourinary: Interstitial cystitis

Musculoskeletal: Osteoarthritis support. It may slow cartilage breakdown, which, in turn, slows osteoarthritis progression. Claimed to decrease pain (especially in the hip, knee, and back), rheumatoid arthritis, general arthralgia, TMJ, acute knee surgery, and possibly MS support

Side Effects: Constipation, diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, heartburn, nausea, rash. It may

increase LDL (bad cholesterol), problems

Caution/Contraindications: Allergy to shellfish, use with acetaminophen (common: Tylenol), some chemotherapy drugs,  some diabetic medications, high cholesterol, Warfarin use, glaucoma (glucosamine sulfate)

FORMS: Capsules, caplets, powders, patches, lotions, creams

DOSAGE: As directed

The following are reported doses and may NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources, i.e., WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, ConsumerLabs, German Commission E, NIH publications, and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

• Note: Glucosamine often comes in combination with Chondroitin, sometimes MSM (an anti-inflammatory which inhibits inflammatory cytokines) and/or Boswellia (a natural substance which decreases inflammatory mediators), and/or collagen (reputed to possibly decrease inflammation)

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS: 

Glucosamine Only:

• WynnPharma Dona 1500 mg caplets (order here on the Amazon link)

Chondroitin and Glucosamine:

• Kirkland Signature [Costco] Advanced (Glucosamine and Chondroitin) (Available at Costco)

• Nutramax® Cosamin® DS For Joint Health (Available through this Amazon link)

Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM:

• Doctor's Best® Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM With OptiMSM (order here from Amazon)

• GNC Triflex (order here from Amazon)

• Nature Made® Glucosamine Chondroitin Complex With MSM (available in retail stores)

• Pure Encapsulations® Glucosamine Chondroitin With MSM (order on the Fullscript link here)

• Xymogen® Synovx® DJD (order through Fullscript link here)

Glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, Boswelia and Collagen:

• Member's Mark™ [Sam's Club] Glucosamine HCl Chondroitin/MSM Complex (Sam's Club)

• Osteo Bi-Flex® Triple Strength (available in retail stores)

We only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

NOTE: The following are designated as either GLUCOSAMINE SULFATE (possibly better of the two) or GLUCOSAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE

• Depression: (glucosamine hydrochloride) 1 gm by mouth for 1 week, then increase to 2 gm daily.

• Interstitial cystitis: 240 mg glucosamine sulfate by mouth 2 times daily (used with chondroitin)

• Joint pain: 500 mg glucosamine sulfate by mouth 3 times daily

• Knee pain: 500 mg glucosamine sulfate by mouth 3 times daily or 2000 mg glucosamine hydrochloride by mouth once daily.

• MS: 1000 mg glucosamine sulfate by mouth daily

• Osteoarthritis: 480 mg glucosamine hydrochloride 2 times daily or 500 mg by mouth 3 times daily for 3 weeks, then decrease to 500 by mouth 2 times daily.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: 500 mg glucosamide hydrochloride by mouth 3 times daily

• TMJ: 1500 mg by mouth daily or 500 mg 3 times daily

Notes:

• Glucosamine may take 4-8 weeks to work

• If you are vegan or vegetarian, check the product for the source (i.e., fish, pig, cow, corn, and others)

Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.