New York Buyers' Club Supplement Fact Sheet: Glucosamine

PREPARED BY THE NEW YORK BUYERS' CLUBwww.newyorkbuyersclub.org 800-650-4983
Posted 3/16/07CLICK TO PRINT
NAME:	Glucosamine	Alpha-D-glucosamine
DESCRIPTION:	Glucosamine plays an integral part of all connective tissue in the body. It is especially important in the formation of the intestinal mucosa and the production of hyaluronic acid for joint (synovial) fluids. Glucosamine is approved as a medical drug in Europe (in the form of glucosamine sulfate). Glucosamine (C₆H₁₃NO₅) is an amino sugar that is an important precursor in the biochemical synthesis of glycosylated proteins and lipids. These glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are a major component of joint cartilage.
FUNCTION:	Used in the treatment and prevention of osteoarthritis.
SOURCES:	D-Glucosamine is made naturally in the body in the form of *glucosamine-6-phosphate*.
DOSAGE:	For treatment of osteoarthritis: 1,500 milligrams daily
DATA:	Recently, several meta-analyses have proven the effectiveness of glucosamine in treating osteoarthritis. In a meta-analysis, the results of other studies are evaluated. (See FOR MORE INFORMATION below) Some of these studies showed a positive, synergistic effect when glucosmine is combined with chondroitin (a popular pairing). Julian Whitaker, MD, and editor of Health & Healing has pointed out that glucosamine can help repair arthritic joints by stimulating production of connective tissue. Vitamin C also plays an important role in this process. Glucosamine is often combined with chondroitin. Preliminary information from one animal study suggests that this combination may be superior to either treatment alone.
CAUTIONS:	Shellfish allergy warning: Most glucosamine supplements are derived shellfish. And, while the glucosamine is extracted from the shells and not the allergen-containing flesh, it's probably best to avoid using it. Some clinical studies have suggested that glucosamine sulfate may increase insulin resistance. If you are at risk for diabetes or are taking protease inhibitors and seeing signs of insulin resistance in your blood work, discontinue use. If you have information about this concern, please do not hesitate to contact us. Side effects that have been reported are mainly mild and gastrointestinal-related, such as heartburn, epigastric distress, and diarrhea.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:	A well-documented entry on glucosamine can be found on Wikipedia. Physicians Desk Reference has an excellent (and encouraging!) research summary.

RELATED PRODUCTS:	N-A-G 750 (Jarrow Formulas). Each bottle, 120 capsules. Each capsule, 750 mg of N-acetyl-glucosamine. Glucosamine + Chondroitin Combination (Jarrow Formulas) Each bottle, 120 capsules. Each capsule, 500 mg glucosamine and 300mg of chondroitin, both in the sulfate form.
PRODUCT NOTES:	It usually takes several weeks of supplementation before effects are noticeable.
DISCLAIMER:	These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.