Glucosamine is an altered form of glucose in which one of the oxygen atoms in the glucose molecule has been replaced by a
nitrogen atom. Chondroitin molecules are specialized polysaccharides (i.e., chains of certain sugars).
In the cartilage of joints glucosamine is incorporated into longer chains known as ‘glycosaminoglycans’; these are then combined
with chondroitin to form very large structures known as proteoglycans. It is thought that proteoglycans are needed for maintaining
and repairing damage to the joint cartilage, and for attracting water into the joint space for lubrication during movement.
Many studies have shown a clear benefit of glucosamine supplements in reducing pain and improving range of motion in osteoarthritic
joints. Other studies have demonstrated that osteoarthritis patients taking chondroitin sulfate see improvements of at least
50% in measurements such as pain level, joint stiffness and walking speed. In clinical studies improvements were seen within
8 to 12 weeks at doses of 1500 to 2000 mg/day of glucosamine sulfate and 1200 mg/day of chondroitin sulfate.
This product combines glucosamine sulfate (stabilized with potassium chloride) and chondroitin sulfate in the ratio considered
optimum for joint improvement. The typical daily dose is 3 capsules — higher doses may work faster.