What is glucosamine?
The use of glucosamine in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts
accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal/health supplements,
consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with
a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and
coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.
Glucosamine is also known as chitosamine.
Glucosamine has been used for the alleviation of the symptoms of arthritis.
It has been reported that glucosamine may be involved in the production of cartilage that
is important for healthy joints.
Glucosamine has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of glucosamine may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances
where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or
other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize
the risk of contamination.
Glucosamine may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking glucosamine?
Before taking glucosamine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if
you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other
herbal/health supplements. Glucosamine may not be recommended in some situations.
Do not
take glucosamine without first talking to your doctor if you
are pregnant or could become pregnant.
Do not
take glucosamine without first talking to your doctor if you
are breast-feeding a baby.
There is no information available regarding the use of glucosamine by children. Do
not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without first talking to the child's doctor.
How should I take glucosamine?
The use of glucosamine in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts
accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal/health supplements,
consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with
a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and
coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.
If you choose to take glucosamine, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your
doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
The sulfate form of glucosamine (e.g., glucosamine sulfate) may be better absorbed by
your body. Also, glucosamine is often combined with chondroitin in the treatment of the
symptoms of arthritis.
Different formulations of glucosamine are available to be used internally (orally).
Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets and powder) of glucosamine at the
same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different
formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of glucosamine.
Although glucosamine may be readily available for use, it is important to consult with
your doctor regarding traditional treatments for arthritis, to maintain proper body weight, and to
continue with an exercise regimen as directed.
Store glucosamine as directed on the package. In general, glucosamine should be
protected from light and moisture and stored in a sealed container.
What happens if I miss a dose of glucosamine?
No information is available regarding a missed dose of glucosamine. Consult your doctor,
pharmacist, or health care professional if you require further information.
Where can I get more information about glucosamine?
Your pharmacist has information about glucosamine written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of glucosamine?
Although uncommon, allergic reactions to glucosamine have been reported. Stop
taking glucosamine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your
lips, tongue, or face; or hives.
Other less serious side effects of glucosamine have not been reported. Talk to your doctor,
pharmacist, or health care professional if you experience any side effects from glucosamine. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about glucosamine?
Glucosamine has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of glucosamine may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances
where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or
other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize
the risk of contamination.
What should I avoid while taking glucosamine?
There are no known restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking glucosamine,
unless otherwise directed by your health care professional.
What other drugs will affect glucosamine?
Interactions between glucosamine and other prescription or over-the-counter medicines or
herbal/health supplements have not been reported. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health
care professional before taking glucosamine if you are taking any other medicines or
supplements.
What happens if I have an overdose of glucosamine?