Glucosamine - Clinical Research

Glucosamine: The Science Behind the Relief

Glucosamine, commonly sourced from shellfish, has been researched for many years for its role in supporting knee osteoarthritis (OA). Scientists have also investigated its potential structure-modifying effects, a term used to describe ingredients that may help protect joint cartilage and reduce the progression of structural changes over time. Numerous reviews show benefits for both pain and everyday function.

Clinical & Mechanistic Evidence

1. Topical glucosamine/chondroitin/camphor for knee OA 
Cohen M, Wolfe R, Mai T, Lewis D. J Rheumatol. 2003.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (n=63) showed greater pain reduction with the topical active cream vs placebo by 4–8 weeks (VAS and WOMAC). 
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2. Long-term GS slows structural OA progression 
Reginster J-Y, et al. Lancet. 2001.
In 212 knee-OA patients, placebo lost 0.31 mm joint space over 3 years vs no significant loss on GS; symptoms also improved on GS. 
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3. Glucosamine sulphate: An umbrella review of health outcomes
Veronese N, et al. 2020.
Across 11 systematic reviews / 37 RCTs (≈3,949 participants), crystalline GS 1500 mg/day showed higher-certainty benefits for pain/function indices and joint-space width vs placebo; safety similar to placebo. 
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4. Glucosamine therapy for treating osteo-arthritis
Towheed T, et al. 2005.
Findings favored GS overall; benefits were most consistent with the Rotta/crystalline GS preparation (pain and function; two trials showed slower radiographic progression over 3 years). 
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