Benefits of Glucosamine

Touted as a pain reliever for joint aches and pains, including osteoarthritis, glucosamine has grown in popularity in recent years. Although glucosamine is made from naturally occurring substances in the body, glucose and the amino acid glutamine, as with any medication or supplement, it’s important to note the potential side effects of its use.

In general, long-term studies indicate that glucosamine is safe. While most people in NZ will experience no adverse reactions, mild side effects include poor appetite, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and drowsiness. However, people in specific groups may find it beneficial to take additional precautions.

Among these groups are those with allergies to shellfish, diabetics, people using blood-thinning or anti-platelet medications, and pregnant or nursing women. Derived from chitin, a carbohydrate in shellfish, glucosamine supplements may be problematic for those with allergies. However, it is important to note that most allergies to shellfish are a reaction to the proteins contained in it, which are not used in glucosamine supplements. Moreover, some glucosamine supplements are developed from corn rather than chitin. In either case, be sure to consult a physician before use if you have an allergy to shellfish.

This raises the issue of side effects for diabetics. As already mentioned, glucosamine is technically a carbohydrate. Therefore, it can cause insulin levels to fluctuate, especially in diabetics, although the body does not convert glucosamine into additional glucose. However, a 2003 study showed no significant effect on glucose levels for patients with type 2 diabetes, which may portend well for those seeking safe relief from joint pain. To be safe, diabetics should consult a physician before beginning a glucosamine regimen, as it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels.

For patients in NZ using blood thinners or anti-platelet medications such as warfarin, Ticlid or clopidogrel, it is not advisable to take glucosamine due to it’s potential to increase bleeding. This admonition also applies to those taking supplements such as Vitamin E, gingko, red clover or garlic, as these may further increase the risk of bleeding when coupled with glucosamine.

Finally, because the effects of glucosamine on pregnant or nursing women have not been established, women in these groups are encouraged to avoid glucosamine.