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Multiple double-blind, randomized clinical trials have shown that glucosamine acts as an effective analgesic for osteoarthritis pain. For example, in a three-year, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study "Glucosamine Sulfate Use and Delay of Progression of Knee Osteoarthritis" 1, the results demonstrated that long-term treatment with glucosamine sulfate slowed the progression of knee osteoarthritis.
Another trial, published in the Lancet Journal 2 studied follow-up x-rays of arthritic joints after one to three years of glucosamine supplementation. It found that of the 1060 patients studied who were taking a placebo or glucosamine, they had similar changes in joint space, but only the glucosamine group had a reduction in pain, stiffness and range of motion.
Finally, a meta-analysis of clinical trials involving more than 400 patients for long-term effectiveness found that "the available evidence suggests that glucosamine sulfate may be effective and safe in delaying the progression and improving the symptoms of knee OA.” 3 This study found that glucosamine patients had 54% less risk of OA progression and a close to a 60% greater reduction in pain than the placebo group.
For in-depth information about these studies:
1) Pavelká K, et al, Glucosamine Sulfate Use and Delay of Progression of Knee Osteoarthritis. Archives of Internal Medicine, October 2002.
2) Piperno M et al, Glucosamine sulfate on OA progression: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lancet 2001 (Jan):357 (9252):247.
3) Poolsup N et al. Glucosamine Long-Term Treatment and the Progression of Knee Osteoarthritis: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Ann Pharmacother 2005;39:1080-7.
Jamieson’s Consumer Advisor
Look for these product qualifications when purchasing a glucosamine supplement:
Raw materials — Many concerns arise with the source of the raw materials. In order to avoid tainted products, check that the manufacturer has a guaranteed policy about sourcing raw materials free of impurities.
Daily dosage — Best practice ensures that you take 1,500 mg of glucosamine daily for at least six to eight weeks before you experience optimal relief of joint pain. A good quality supplement should offer at least 500 mg of glucosamine per caplet. Premium supplements offer 750 mg of the same active ingredients per caplet.
Quality assurance — Look for a reputable manufacturer that offers unique formulations created and compounded in their own pharmaceutical laboratories. This guarantees a pharmaceutical-grade product that is tested for potency and efficacy and certified to be free of any impurities.
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