Many researchers and recently major publications recommended the use of glucosamine orally in the treatment of the pain associated with osteoarthritis. All studies on glucosamine have demonstrated fewer side affects than anti-inflammatories. Unfortunately however, there is at this point, no medical evidence that glucosamine taken orally can reduce or repair articular surface damage. Glucosamine is sold over the counter in the United States as a dietary supplement. It is often combined with chondroitin sulfate.
Some suppliers recommend the dosage be increased when the pain is severe.
The addition of chondroitin sulfate to the glucosamine can significantly increase its cost. In summary, glucosamine with or without chondroitin sulfate does appear to have some affect on the inflammatory response caused by arthritic degeneration in joints and specifically in knees. Unfortunately from a medical view point, glucosamine has not been shown to slow or repair articular cartilage degenerative changes. For this reason, no specific recommendation for the use of glucosamine with or without chondroitin sulfate can be made. It should be noted however, that there are no known side effects to taking this dietary supplement and therefore there appears to be no contraindication to trying it on an individual basis.