Arthritis Sufferers May Find Alternative in Glucosamine

Mild or moderate arthritis sufferers may want to consider glucosamine instead of the current first-line treatment of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

Dr. Samuel Benjamin, medical director of integrative strategies for Humana, said glucosamine sulfate, which is derived from the shells of crustaceans, has been shown in trials lasting up to three years to be clinically safe for the treatment of arthritis.

Writing in the February issue of the Humana For Your Benefit newsletter, Benjamin said studies have shown that glucosamine appears to slow the progression of arthritis unlike NSAIDs, while relieving pain and swelling as well as NSAIDs.

"There's no doubt NSAIDs can be effective, but at a price," he said, said noting that potential side effects of NSAIDs include:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding (often requiring hospitalization).
• Diarrhea.
• Kidney disease and kidney failure.
• Decreased effectiveness of anti-hypertension medications.
• Dramatically increased risk of congestive heart failure in those with heart disease.

Although safe to use, glucosamine has one drawback, according to Benjamin, in that it takes four to six weeks to take full effect.

Possible side effects with glucosamine include: nausea, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation; drowsiness or headaches; increased insulin resistance and increased blood sugar levels in some people with diabetes; increased triglycerides in some individuals; and increased blood pressure.

"While most users may experience no adverse effects, it is best to discuss the use of glucosamine with your doctor and compare the potential risks and benefits of both NSAIDs and glucosamine," said Benjmain. "If you take glucosamine, you may be able to stop or dramatically reduce your use of NSAIDs."

Benjamin said people looking for glucosamine in their drug stores might find it combined with chondroitin at a considerably higher price. Since no data exists showing an improved effect for glucosamine and chondroitin together, he suggested that consumers might want to consider buying just glucosamine.

Other sources: Humana