Glucosamine Sulfate (GS) Comments

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:   Frankp@chiro.org

In Feb. 1997, during my rehab diplomate program (LACC) here in Chicago, James Gerber, DC, MS, DABCO, CCN presented us with this group of articles which relate to the question of the benefit of GS supplements:

"Four controlled studies   (19, 20, 21, 22) using 750-1500 (3 used the 1500) mg/d oral glucosamine sulfate in patients with osteoarthritic knees, showed significant pain reduction, less analgesic use, improved joint function and, in one study improved histology on biopsy.

1200 mg/day of oral mixed chondroitin sulfates (the active substance) from shark fins for one year provided symptomatic and clinical benefit, and improved or preserved articular cartilage thickness compared with placebo in patients with osteoarthritic knees (23) (This last article noted some increases in articluar cartilage thickness as determined by serial x-rays)


¹⁹   Drovanti, A   Therapeutic Activity of Oral Glucosamine Sulfate in Osteoarthrosis: A Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Investigation
Clinical Therapeutics 1980;   3(4):   260–72

²⁰   Pujalte, JM   Double-blind Clinical Evaluation of Oral Glucosamine Sulphate in the Basic Treatment of Osteoarthrosis
Curr Med Res Opin 1980;   7:   110-14

²¹   D'Ambrosio, E   Glucosamine Sulphate:   A Controlled Clinical Investigation in Arthrosis
Pharmatherapeutica 1981;   2(8):   504–8

²²   Val, AZ   Double-Blind Clinical Evaluation of the Relative Efficacy of Ibuprofen and Glucosamine Sulphate in the Management of Osteoarthrosis of the Knee in Out-Patients
Current Medical Research and Opinion 1982;   8(3):   145–149

²³   Pipitone, V
A multicenter triple-blind study to evaluate galactosaminoglucuronoglycan sulfate versus placebo in patients with femorotibial gonarthritis
Curr Ther Res 1992;   52:   608-22


I hope this will be of interest you,

Frank M. Painter, D.C.

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