Glucosamine Sulfate

What is Glucosamine Sulfate?

Glucosamine Sulfate is a substance that occurs naturally in certain things such as chicken marrow and in the shells of animals such as shrimp and lobster. Basically, it is a substance that our body needs to help keep our joints healthy and to repair any damage. But, it is something that is all but absent in our diets.

Controlled trials support the use of glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee. It is believed that the sulfate moiety provides clinical benefit in the synovial fluid by strengthening cartilage and aiding glycosaminoglycan synthesis.

Since it is absent in most of our diets, it may be necessary to supplement it. In most cases, dietary supplements using Glucosamine Sulfate are used for the following reasons:

• Knee osteoarthritis,
• Osteoarthritis,
• Chronic venous insufficiency,
• Diabetes and related conditions,
• Inflammatory bowel disease, 
• Pain especially leg pain,
• Rehabilitation especially after knee injury,
• Rheumatoid arthritis, and
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
  

Side Effects and Warnings of Glucosamine Sulfate

Since glucosamine can be made from the shells of shrimp, crab, and other shellfish, people with shellfish allergy or iodine hypersensitivity may have an allergic reaction to glucosamine products.

In most human studies, glucosamine sulfate has been well tolerated for 30 to 90 days. It is relatively safe for most but some people may have some side effects. That is why it is very important to contact your medical provider before using Glucosamine Sulfate.

Side effects may include upset stomach, drowsiness, insomnia, headache, skin reactions, sun sensitivity, and nail toughening. There are rare reports of abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, flatulence (gas), constipation, heartburn, and diarrhoea.

Glucosamine Sulfate may increase the risk of bleeding. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Glucosamine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to lack of scientific evidence.

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