Glucosamine Delays Progression of Osteoarthritis

Summary

Glucosamine appears to slow the progression of osteoarthritis during long term treatment and it "merits further attention as a possible disease-modifying agent for the treatment of osteoarthritis". In a randomised, controlled study, 202 patients received oral glucosamine sulphate 1500mg or placebo (dummy pill) daily for 3 years. All patients had primary knee osteoarthritis. There were significant improvements in symptoms of joint pain and limitation of knee function in the glucosamine group compared with the placebo group. Those on glucosamine did not undergo, on average, the progressive joint structure changes that were seen on x-ray in those taking placebo. The use of paracetamol for pain relief was similar in both groups (minor and variable for most patients). There were also no differences between the groups for adverse events or routine laboratory tests.
Pavelka K, et al. Arch Intern Med 162:2113-2123, 14 Oct 2002

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