Chondroitin Side Effects

From Pharmacy Drug Guide

Chondroitin is a naturally-occurring component of cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions the bones of the joints. Chondroitin sulfate is a substance obtained from shark or bovine cartilage. Synthetic chondroitin may also be used in supplements. Chondroitin may help treat the symptoms of cartilage loss in the joints from conditions such as osteoarthritis (OA).^[1] Chondroitin may also help relieve symptoms of some bladder conditions, such as overactive bladder. It is often taken in combination with glucosamine sulfate.^[2] Studies on the efficacy of chondroitin alone, or glucosamine and chondroitin, are mixed.^{[3] [4] [5]}

Side effects of chondroitin are rare, and it is generally well tolerated for long periods of time. Side effects may include hives, rash, breathing difficulties, chest pain, elevated blood pressure, and gastrointestinal problems. Previously-controlled asthma may become worse.^[6]

Contents 1 Common Chondroitin Side Effects 2 About Drug Side Effects 3 Chondroitin Allergic Reactions 4 Chondroitin Precautions and Warnings 5 References

Common Chondroitin Side Effects

In general, chondroitin side effects are uncommon, and some side effects are theoretical and not yet confirmed. The most common side effects of chondroitin may include headache, clumsiness, photosensitivity, hair loss, difficulty breathing, elevated blood pressure, lower extremity edema, eyelid edema, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.^[6]

Serious adverse reactions may include risk of increased spread or recurrence of prostate cancer, worsening of existing asthma, chest pain, gastrointestinal pain, liver damage, and bone marrow suppression.^[6]

About Drug Side Effects

Chondroitin Allergic Reactions

Patients with shellfish allergies are advised to use chondroitin with caution. Allergic reactions to chondroitin may include some or all of the following symptoms: hives, rash, tightness in the throat or chest, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, and difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions may require immediate medical attention, as severe allergies can cause breathing and swallowing difficulty.^{[2] [6]}

Chondroitin Precautions and Warnings

• Not all chondroitin supplements contain as much of the substance as they claim. A doctor or other health care professional can recommend a trustworthy brand and help consumers avoid unreliable products.^[2]
• Chondroitin supplements are not all vegetarian; they are often made with cow cartilage. Some are made with algae instead and are suitable for non-meat eaters.^[2]
• The safety of chondroitin use in children has not been studied; therefore, it is not recommended for children.
• Chondroitin use has not been studied in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• It may not be safe for men with prostate cancer or who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer to use chondroitin, as it may increase the risk of metastasis (spreading), or make the cancer more likely to reoccur.^[6]
• Chondroitin is similar to heparin, and may cause the blood to thin or it may enhance the effect of blood thinners like warfarin or NSAIDs like ibuprofen, found in Advil and Aleve.
• Chondroitin is sometimes sold in combination with manganese. It is not safe to consumer more than 11 mg per day of manganese, including both food and supplements.^[2]

Also See: Glucosamine Side Effects, Iceland Health Joint Relief, Vitamin D, Vitamin D Side Effects, Calcium Side Effects, Fish Oil, Fish Oil Side Effects

References

1. ↑ http://www.brighamandwomens.org/Patients_Visitors/patientresources/patienteducation/patientguides/osteoarthritis.aspx
2. ↑ ^{2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4} http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/chondroitin-000293.htm
3. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1954603/
4. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2941572/
5. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3086604/
6. ↑ ^{6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4} http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chondroitin-sulfate/NS_patient-chondroitin/DSECTION=safety