Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Glucosamine (often in the form of glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride, sometimes "mixed") is widely used as a dietary supplement to support joint health and manage cartilage damage, especially in osteoarthritis. Scientific evidence for its efficacy is mixed. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have examined glucosamine's effects on cartilage damage and symptoms of osteoarthritis. Some studies report modest improvements in pain and function, particularly with glucosamine sulfate, while others find minimal or no benefit compared to placebo. There is limited evidence that glucosamine may slow joint space narrowing (a marker of cartilage loss) in some patients, but this finding is not consistent across studies.

Most major guidelines, such as those from the American College of Rheumatology and the Osteoarthritis Research Society International, do not strongly recommend glucosamine for cartilage damage due to inconsistent results and questions about clinical significance. However, its safety profile is generally favorable, and it remains popular, especially among individuals seeking non-pharmacologic interventions. In summary, while glucosamine is scientifically studied and commonly used for cartilage damage, the evidence supporting its efficacy is weak to moderate, and expert opinions remain divided.

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