What Is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is an amino sugar, which is harvested from shellfish or formulated in laboratories. It is available as glucosamine sulphate, N-acetyl glucosamine, and glucosamine hydrochloride.

Glucosamine is found naturally in the cartilage of joints. It acts as a natural shock-absorbent and joint lubricant. It allows the movement without pain in the joints, muscles, and bones. Glucosamine has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Therefore, many people use glucosamine sulfate through oral route to treat inflammation, breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage.

Is Glucosamine Really Effective in the Treatment of Arthritis?

Glucosamine is beneficial in the treatment of osteoarthritis only. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, new researches do not find any improvement in inflammation or joint pain. Also, there is no clinical evidence that supports the use of N-acetyl glucosamine in the treatment of arthritis.

What Are the Side Effects, Risks, and Drug Interactions Associated with the Use of Glucosamine?

Glucosamine intake can cause certain side effects such as:

  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Skin reactions
  • Headache
  • Heartburn
  • Drowsiness

Risks linked with the intake of glucosamine:

  • People who are allergic to shellfish can have allergies with the intake of glucosamine.
  • Use of glucosamine is not recommended for children or pregnant and lactating women.
  • Glucosamine may worsen asthma.
  • Glucosamine sulfate may affect blood sugar levels.

Possible interactions of glucosamine:

  • Acetaminophen: Administration of glucosamine sulfate and acetaminophen together can decrease the efficiency of both the medications.
  • Warfarin: Administration of glucosamine alone or in combination with chondroitin may elevate the effects of warfarin, which increases the risk of bleeding.

How Is Glme Better than Glucosamine in Arthritis Management?

GLME is a natural product with multiple compounds. It has chondro-protective, gastro-protective and anti-inflammatory actions. It is effective in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It has long-chain fatty acids and a wide range of therapeutic polysaccharides. It is a ‘basic food status’ product and thus, it is safe to consume even at higher doses and does not cause any serious adverse effects.

On the other side, glucosamine is a single compound product. It has only mild anti-inflammatory activity and provides joint and cartilage protection. It is beneficial in Osteoarthritis only. It contains no long-chain fatty acids and contains only one therapeutic polysaccharide. Its higher doses can cause serious unpleasant effects.