Evidence supporting the use of: Glucosamine Sulfate
For the health condition: Cartilage Damage

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Glucosamine sulfate is commonly used as a dietary supplement to support joint health, particularly in the context of osteoarthritis and cartilage damage. The rationale for its use stems from the fact that glucosamine is a natural component of cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have evaluated glucosamine sulfate's efficacy in treating symptoms of osteoarthritis, which often involves cartilage degeneration. Results from these studies are mixed: some show modest benefit in reducing pain and improving function, while others find no significant difference compared to placebo. Notably, the highest quality studies typically report small or negligible effects.

A 2018 Cochrane review of randomized controlled trials concluded that glucosamine sulfate may provide a small benefit for pain and function in people with osteoarthritis, but the clinical relevance of this effect is questionable. Furthermore, evidence does not consistently support the idea that glucosamine sulfate can repair or regenerate damaged cartilage, despite its widespread use for this purpose. Professional organizations such as the American College of Rheumatology generally do not recommend glucosamine for routine management of osteoarthritis due to insufficient evidence of meaningful benefit.

In summary, while glucosamine sulfate is widely used and some studies suggest minor symptomatic relief, robust scientific evidence demonstrating its effectiveness in treating cartilage damage or slowing structural joint changes is limited. The evidence supporting its use is modest and remains controversial.

More about Glucosamine Sulfate
More about Cartilage Damage

Other health conditions supported by Glucosamine Sulfate

Arthritis
Cartilage Damage

Products containing Glucosamine Sulfate

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.