Glucosamine Chondroitin Side Effects

From Pharmacy Drug Guide

Glucosamine is a substance the body produces naturally. It is a component of cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions the bones of the joints; and synovial fluid, a viscous fluid that helps reduce friction in the joints. Chondroitin is also a naturally-occurring component of cartilage.^[1]

Chondroitin and glucosamine may be taken together or individually to help ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA). Glucosamine may also help improve the symptoms of bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.^[2] Chondroitin may help relieve symptoms of some bladder conditions, such as overactive bladder.^[1] There are also glucosamine products on the market for pets. Studies on the efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin are mixed.^[3]

Side effects of glucosamine and chondroitin are rare, and the supplements are generally well tolerated. Side effects may include allergic reaction, heartburn, and gastrointestinal problems. Blood glucose levels may be affected. Asthma which had previously been controlled may become worse, although this has not been proven.^{[1] [4]}

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

Common Glucosamine and Chondroitin Side Effects

Some typical side effects of glucosamine and chondroitin may include upset stomach, headache, motor uneasiness, photosensitivity, hair loss, difficulty breathing, elevated blood pressure, lower extremity edema, eyelid edema, drowsiness or insomnia, bloating or gas, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or nail toughening. Patients may experience changes in blood sugar levels. Medications to control blood sugar may need to be adjusted.^{[2] [1]}

Glucosamine and chondroitin side effects are not common, and in some cases anecdotal evidence is all that exists. However, some of the concerns are serious, like risk of increased spread or recurrence of prostate cancer, worsening of existing asthma, chest pain, gastrointestinal pain, kidney or liver damage, immune system changes, and bone marrow suppression. There is also the potential for increased risk of bleeding.

About Drug Side Effects

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Allergic Reactions

Patients with shellfish allergies should use glucosamine and chondroitin with caution. Allergic reactions to glucosamine and chondroitin may include some or all of the following symptoms: hives, rash, tightness in the throat or chest, swelling of the face or tongue, and difficulty breathing. Throat swelling has been reported. Allergic reactions may require immediate medical attention.^{[5] [6]}

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Precautions and Warnings

• Glucosamine and chondroitin use has not been studied in pregnant and breastfeeding women. The safety of chondroitin in children has also not been studied.
• Chondroitin may not be safe for men with prostate cancer or those who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin may enhance the effect of blood thinners, like warfarin, and may increase the risk of bleeding.^[2]
• Glucosamine may change blood sugar levels, and patients taking medications to control blood sugar may need those medications adjusted. Glucosamine may interact with doxorubicin, etoposide and teniposide.^{[2] [5]}
• Chondroitin is sometimes sold in combination with manganese. Intake of manganese should not exceed 11 mg per day, including food and supplements.^{[1] [6]}

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

References

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4} http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/chondroitin-000293.htm
2. ↑ ^{2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3} http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/glucosamine-000306.htm
3. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1954603/
4. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/807.html#Safety
5. ↑ ^{5.0 5.1} http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/glucosamine/NS_patient-glucosamine/DSECTION=safety
6. ↑ ^{6.0 6.1} http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chondroitin-sulfate/NS_patient-chondroitin/DSECTION=safety