Evidence supporting the use of: Glucosamine (mixed type)
For the health condition: Cartilage Damage

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring amino sugar found in cartilage and is commonly used as a dietary supplement, often in the form of glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, or N-acetyl-glucosamine. The rationale behind its use in supporting or treating cartilage damage, particularly in osteoarthritis, is based on its role as a building block for glycosaminoglycans, which are essential components of cartilage structure and function. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have evaluated glucosamine's effectiveness in reducing symptoms or slowing structural progression of cartilage damage, especially in knee osteoarthritis. While some studies have reported modest improvements in pain and function, others have found no significant benefit over placebo. The highest quality studies tend to show little or no clinically meaningful effect.

Systematic reviews and guidelines from organizations such as the American College of Rheumatology and the Osteoarthritis Research Society International generally do not recommend glucosamine for routine management of osteoarthritis due to insufficient evidence of efficacy. However, glucosamine is still used by many patients, and some guidelines note that it may be tried on an individual basis due to its favorable safety profile. In summary, scientific evidence supporting glucosamine for cartilage damage is mixed and generally weak, but its widespread use is based on plausible biological mechanisms and some, though inconsistent, clinical research.

More about Glucosamine (mixed type)
More about Cartilage Damage

Other health conditions supported by Glucosamine (mixed type)

Arthritis
Cartilage Damage

Products containing Glucosamine (mixed type)

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