Glucosamine for osteoarthritis of the knee

Abstract

Glucosamine is a normal constituent of the proteoglycans found in joint cartilage and synovial fluid. It has been recommended for many years by practitioners of complementary medicine for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Clinical trials have now shown that the use of oral glucosamine sulphate 1.5 g daily in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee results in a significant reduction in joint pain and an improvement in joint function. In addition, glucosamine appears to reduce the loss of cartilage in the knee joint over at least a three-year period, particularly in those with milder radiological osteoarthritis. It would therefore Seem reasonable to recommend a trial of glucosamine in patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee.