Glucosamine and chondroitin are two key substances for the treatment of arthritis, osteoarthritis, joint pain and joint destruction. These substances when used together help in rebuilding the tissues that form the cartilage itself, fighting inflammation and pain.
The names of some remedies, vitamins and supplements that contain the active substances Glucosamine and Chondroitin are the Condroflex, Artrolive, Superflex, Osteo Bi-flex and Triflex.
What is it for
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are two substances indicated to improve the strengthening of the joints, being useful for:
- Reduce joint pain,
- Increase lubrication of joints,
- Stimulate cartilage repair,
- Inhibit enzymes that destroy cartilage,
- Preserve the intra articular space,
- Fight inflammation.
In this way, its use can be indicated by the doctor or nutritionist, to complement the treatment of arthritis and arthrosis, for example. Understand what arthritis is.
How it works
Glucosamine and chondroitin act on the cartilage that lines the joints, protecting and slowing the degenerative and inflammatory process of the cartilage, reducing the pain and causing the limitation of the movements that usually happen in diseases that reach the cartilage.
How to use
The recommended dose depends on the brand of the medicine in question, because each of them can have different dosages. Thus, the recommended daily dose is 1500 mg of glucosamine and 1200 mg of chondroitin.
These supplements may be available in tablets or sachets, so it is recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions for the product obtained, as well as to consult a doctor before starting treatment.
Who should not use
This medication should not be used by people with allergy to glucosamine, chondroitin or any component of the formulation during pregnancy and lactation in people with phenylketonuria or severe renal impairment.
In addition, it should be used with caution in people with gastrointestinal disorders, history of gastric or intestinal ulcer, diabetes mellitus, problems in the blood production system or who have liver or heart failure.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that can be caused by glucosamine and chondroitin are gastric discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, itching and headache.
In addition, although it is more rare, it can also occur allergic reactions that manifest in the skin, swelling in the extremities, increase of the heart beat, drowsiness and insomnia, difficulty of digestion, constipation, heartburn and anorexia.
