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Around the world hundreds of thousands of people of all ages suffer from osteoarthritis, an arthritis caused by damage and degeneration of the cartilage of the joints of the body, specifically those of the fingers, hips and spine. This arthritis causes inflammation in the joints, resulting in an inability of the joint to function properly and a great deal of pain on the part of the patient.
As yet no miracle cure for osteoarthritis exists; however, scientists have been making great strides in the use of dietary supplements which mimic substances naturally produced by the body in an attempt to ward off the inflammatory process and enable the cartilage to heal itself.While not yet a foregone conclusion there is a great deal of speculation to the fact that glucosamine may be this wonder drug. Glucosamine is naturally produced in the body as a precursor to the glycosaminoglycans which compose the tissue of the joints; therefore, it is hypothesized that by increasing the concentration of glucosamine in the blood the body would be able to produce more of this tissue and repair the damage suffered by the joints in individuals with osteoarthritis. Due to the fact that when it is properly synthesized it almost perfectly emulates the glucosamine naturally produced by the body supplemental glucosamine does not cause the side effects commonly suffered by those who choose to use over the counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Ibuprofen). In fact, almost every study done on the use of glucosamine to treat osteoarthritis has shown that it is completely safe for use. This does not mean that glucosamine is without risks, however. For every drug that is produced there is a small percentage of the population that will not be able to tolerate it. Listed below are several of the most common side effects associated with glucosamine use: 1. Anaphylaxis, or other allergic reactions. While it has not been shown that glucosamine causes allergic reaction individuals with shellfish allergies should use extreme caution. Glucosamine is derived from the shells of common shellfish; while it has been shown that the allergen which generally causes such reactions is found in the body rather than the shell of the shellfish one can never be too careful.
2. Gastric problems, such as nausea, diarrhea and heartburn. These are generally mild and can be avoided by taking glucosamine with food; however, if symptoms persist patients should stop use and consult with a physician.
3. Insulin resistance in diabetics. Although glucosamine is not broken down into glucose and therefore does not raise the body’s glucose levels it can interfere with the absorption of insulin. Diabetics should monitor their blood sugar regularly if they are using glucosamine, particularly within the first thirty to sixty days, in order to determine if resistance is, in fact, occurring.
4. While it has not been shown to be harmful to a developing fetus researchers are not one hundred percent sure that glucosamine is safe for use by pregnant or lactating women; women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are urged not to use glucosamine until further research proves that it is safe. Taken with care glucosamine can be a great ally in the fight against osteoarthritis; however, patients should always consult with their physician prior to starting a course of treatment. |
