March 29, 2004 – Analysis of the results of two studies published in 2001 and 2002 indicates that postmenopausal women with arthritis may benefit from the effects of glucosamine.
The researchers were interested in the effects of glucosamine on postmenopausal women, because the prevalence of osteoarthritis of the knee increases significantly in them after the age of 50 years. They therefore analyzed two studies already published1.2 involving a total of 319 postmenopausal women who had administered 1500 mg of glucosamine or a placebo for three years. The patients suffered from symptoms of mild to moderate osteoarthritis.
Of the 193 patients who completed the trial, 20.6% of those who received placebo and only 6.9% of those taking glucosamine (1500 mg per day) experienced a decrease in intra-articular space , that is to say a degradation of the cartilage. In terms of symptoms, those in the control group increased by 5.4%, while those in the treated group improved by 14.1%.
Currently, glucosamine is the only product, drugs and supplements combined, that can both relieve the symptoms of this disease and slow its progression. However, there is no evidence that glucosamine can prevent this disease, which affects one in seven Canadians. Maintaining a healthy weight, physical activity and a balanced diet are among the most effective prevention strategies.
Note that according to two analyzes published in January 2000 and November 20034 by independent lab ConsumerLab, the glucosamine content of supplements sold in the United States is generally as stated on their label.
Françoise Ruby – PasseportSanté.net
1. Bruyere O, Pavelka K, Rovati LC, Deroisy R, Olejarova M, Gatterova J, Giacovelli G, Reginster JY. Glucosamine sulfate reduces osteoarthritis progression in postmenopausal women with knee osteoarthritis: evidence from two 3-year studies. Menopause. 2004; 11 (2): 138-143.
2. Reginster JY, Deroisy R, Rovati LC, Lee RL, Lejeune E, Bruyere O, Giacovelli G, Henrotin Y, Dacre JE, Gossett C. Long-term effects of glucosamine sulphate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Lancet 2001 Jan 27; 357 (9252): 251-6.
3. Pavelka K, Gatterova J, Olejarova M, Machacek S, Giacovelli G, Rovati LC. Glucosamine sulfate use and delay of progression of knee osteoarthritis: a 3-year, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study.Arch Intern Med 2002 Oct 14; 162 (18): 2113-23.
4. ConsumerLab. Product Review: Joint Supplements (Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM) http://www.consumerlab.com
