July 21, 2003 – Science seems set to back up what thousands of arthritis patients have long known: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements provide effective relief from some of the disease’s worst symptoms.
After carrying out a meta-analysis of 15 studies on the effectiveness of these dietary supplements1, bringing together nearly 1,800 patients, Belgian researchers confirm that glucosamine and chondroitin do indeed have a positive effect on pain, joint stiffness and the quality of life of people who take them. These benefits are never found in control groups.
Arthritis causes severe deterioration of cartilage, of which glucosamine and chondroitin are natural components, and taking supplements would stimulate its repair.
The researchers further say that glucosamine supplements appear to slow the progression of the disease in modest ways, although the actual thickness of the cartilage that separates the bones can sometimes be difficult to measure on an x-ray.
The optimal dose of glucosamine would be 1500 mg per day. The benefits would be felt after as little as two weeks, but at least three years of treatment would be required to slow the destruction of the cartilage.
The researchers finally note that taking anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen was permitted in all studies, but that supplements combined with reduced doses of pain relievers were more effective in combating pain than placebo or pain relievers alone.
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
According to WebMD; July 17, 2003.
1. Richy F, Bruyere O, Ethgen O, Cucherat M, Henrotin Y, Reginster JY. Structural and symptomatic efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin in knee osteoarthritis: a comprehensive meta-analysis.Arch Intern Med 2003 Jul 14; 163 (13): 1514-22. [Consulté le 17 juillet 2003].
