The official word is in. The popular dietary supplements for arthritis, glucosamine and chondroitin (G&C), don’t work.
Researchers reviewed 10 studies involving almost 4,000 people with joint pain (BMJ, online Sept. 16, 2010). The investigators concluded: “Compared with placebo, glucosamine, chondroitin, and their combination do not reduce joint pain or have an impact on narrowing of joint space.”
A Norwegian study came up with a similar conclusion for people with back pain caused by osteoarthritis of the spine (Journal of the American Medical Association, July 7, 2010). The expert consensus is that G&C is no better than placebo.
Readers of this column have mixed feelings about these conclusions: “I’m very surprised to read that glucosamine doesn’t work. About 30 years ago, I suffered from a chipped elbow and a painful knee from a ski injury. A friend told me that glucosamine sulfate had relieved the pain in her hand, and I began taking it. Within a few months I realized I no longer had pain in either area.
“I have recommended it to three other friends with various aches and pain; all were amazed by much how it helped them. I find it hard to believe the glucosamine researchers!”
Another reader opined:
“I’m glad I didn’t read the studies on G&C before I tried it. I’m now 78 years old, a retired registered nurse. I worked on my feet many hours a day.
“Several years ago my knees had very sharp pains in them when I went up and down stairs. I started taking G&C just to see if it would work, though I had my doubts. I thought it would take months before I would get results, if it worked at all.
“After three weeks, I noticed that my knee pain was much reduced when going down stairs. I continued taking it for about four to five years, but eventually I stopped taking it because the large pills were so hard to swallow. The benefits have persisted.
“My husband tried it with no results, but his knee pain was long-standing as a result of broken bones in his knees.”
Other readers tell us that when they take their G&C they are pain free. When they stop, their joints start aching again.
This may be a placebo effect or due to natural changes in arthritis pain over time. Then again, some people may benefit because of their particular make-up. In a large study, this kind of response might be hard to detect.
The investigators acknowledge that some patients “are convinced that these preparations are beneficial,” and go on to express confidence that “neither of the preparations is dangerous.” We have heard from some people that their cholesterol levels rise while taking G&C, though studies have not confirmed this negative effect.
There are no arthritis treatments that work for everyone. Many of the drugs come with a long list of side effects. That’s why home remedies appeal to so many readers. Some find that fruit juices such as cherry, grape, pineapple or pomegranate help ease joint pain. Spices like cayenne, turmeric or ginger may also provide relief.
For those who like such approaches, we offer our book, The People’s Pharmacy Quick & Handy Home Remedies, with recipes and foods that can help control inflammation.
Home remedies are unlikely to be studied in double-blind trials, but they’re generally safe and inexpensive.
