Chondroitin with Glucosamine

Joints, like other tissues of the body, are subject to age-related changes. Excessive physical activity, hereditary characteristics, unhealthy lifestyle, infection or injury lead to degeneration of cartilage, the formation of contractures, calcifications and foci of chronic inflammation. Chondroprotectors such as glucosamine and chondroitin complexes will help protect them from premature aging and wear.

Release forms

Preparations containing chondroitin and glucosamine are used in the treatment and prevention of systemic diseases of the joints and spine. The method of exposure to tissue depends on the form of release.

Capsules

Biologically active food supplements with a high content of substances and trace elements necessary for the healthy functioning of joints are produced by many pharmaceutical companies.

The capsules contain in their composition in different proportions:

• glucosamine as sulfate or hydrochloride;
• chondroitin sulfate;
• calcium carbonate or pure calcium;
• vitamins involved in maintaining metabolic processes in the joint, for example, E, A, C;
• trace elements: chromium, manganese, sodium, potassium, iron;
• collagen;
• polyunsaturated fatty acids;
• crystalline cellulose, gelatin, maltodextrin and other auxiliary substances.

The capsules dissolve in the digestive tract, after which the beneficial substances are absorbed by the intestines. The concentration of nutrients in the blood plasma increases gradually, so a regular course of supplementation is recommended.

Creams

External remedies are intended for local action on a sore joint or back area. They help relieve pain and swelling. The composition of ointments, creams and gels, in addition to the main components, may contain:

• hirudin, which helps dissolve blood clots and eliminate hematomas;
• extracts of medicinal plants, for example, string, horse chestnut, and others;
• beekeeping products: wax, propolis, royal jelly;
• hyaluronic acid;
• panthenol;
• lanolin and other fats, including natural denatured oils.

It should be noted that although studies conducted in the late and early 20th century confirm the effectiveness of chondroitin in the form of ointments and gels, recent experiments from 2008-14 refute previous ones and prove the uselessness of the supplement. The fact is that the substance cannot penetrate the skin in sufficient quantities to produce the declared actions.

Tablets

Unlike capsules, the tablet form allows you to increase the concentration of glucosamine and chondroitin per single dose. They are used in the complex therapy of arthritis, arthrosis and osteochondrosis, as well as in the period of intensive recovery after injuries and operations.

Ampoules for injection

In cases where quick joint relief is required or oral supplementation is not possible, for example due to allergies or digestive disorders, chondroprotective injections can be used. The drug is administered intramuscularly. Its accumulation in tissues occurs faster than in the case of capsules or tablets. However, due to the increased concentration of chondroitin and glucosamine, injections are contraindicated in pregnant women, lactating women, adolescents and patients with renal insufficiency.

Powder

A crystalline white or yellowish powder, in addition to the main acting chondroprotectors, may contain sweeteners and ascorbic acid as a preservative and stabilizer. It is dissolved in water before use. It is a systemic remedy for strengthening and healing joints.

Pharmacological properties

Glucosamine and chondroitin are involved in the synthesis of connective tissue cells in the body. Some manufacturers add additional bioactive components, micronutrients and transport substances to the composition of drugs that improve the delivery of the main components to cells.

Cartilage and joint fluid are rebuilt by providing nutrients and temporarily reducing stress. Nutrition of connective tissues and bones is especially relevant for people from a potential risk group: athletes, the elderly, and overweight.

The main positive effect of the supplement is to restore cartilage and slow down the process of bone resorption.

Wherein:

• Glucosamine repairs joints, slows down the degeneration process, and relieves inflammation. Its additional use is indicated for people suffering from age-related changes or undergoing therapy with glucocorticosteroids. Thanks to the production of cartilage matrix, joint mobility is improved.
• Chondroitin, as a mucopolysaccharide responsible for nutrition and synthesis of connective and bone tissue, is necessary in cases where trophism is impaired due to age or disease. It provides additional support, enhances functionality and prolongs the youthfulness of joints and cartilage.

The main active ingredients are well absorbed by both oral and intramuscular administration. However, as we already wrote above, in the case of external use, the funds do not have the desired effect.

The maximum concentration in the tissues is reached 3-4 hours after administration. Metabolization occurs in the liver, and decay products are excreted from the body by the kidneys, as a rule, after 1-3 days.

With the timely and correct use of the supplement, patients experience:

• Reducing swelling in the area of ​​inflamed tissues and joints.
• Improving the condition of the cartilage tissue on the heads of bones and between the vertebrae.
• Increasing the synthesis of natural collagen and hyaluronic acid.
• Thinning blood and reducing the risk of blood clots.
• Restoration of bone mineral density.
• Deceleration of the growth of osteophytes.
• Acceleration of regeneration of wounds, ulcers, ruptures and sprains of ligaments and tendons, healing of fractures.
• Activation of blood microcirculation.
• Reducing the intensity of pain in the affected joints and in places of inflammation of the connective tissues.
• Return of mobility and flexibility.
• Slowing down the aging process and age-related degenerative changes in cartilage and bones.

Not all of these properties have been confirmed by independent clinical trials. The only thing that can be said for sure is that by taking such supplements, you really do benefit your body. But their price is often unreasonably high. The same effect can be achieved by eating gelatin, as well as meat veins and cartilage, for example, as in the classic jellied meat. Of course, neither dietary supplements nor the last remedies will return your joints like a 12-year-old child.

Indications

The main indications for the use of the supplement are diseases and conditions associated with the destruction of cartilage and connective tissues of the joints and spine. The dietary supplement is used as part of the complex therapy of osteoarthritis, arthritis, osteochondrosis, arthropathy and spondylosis.

As a maintenance agent, chondroitin with glucosamine is prescribed for overweight patients, the elderly, and athletes. Capsules, powder and tablets are used as part of sports nutrition during intensive training or recovery from injuries.

In athletes, the regular use of dietary supplements with chondroitin and glucosamine prevents the development of professional traumatic conditions, for example, knee lesions in football players and weightlifters, destruction of wrist joints in tennis players.

Contraindications

The drug should not be taken in the treatment of children and adolescents, pregnant women, people with phenylkenuria and individual intolerance to the components.

It is necessary to approach treatment with caution in persons with diabetes, renal and hepatic insufficiency, thrombophlebitis and a tendency to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

Directions for use and dosage

Only the attending physician can determine the single and daily dose, as well as the duration of the course. In such a serious matter as the health of the musculoskeletal system, self-medication is unacceptable. Although supplements are sold over-the-counter in pharmacies, it is imperative to consult a specialist before using them.

Tablets, capsules and powders are taken once a day with plenty of fluids with or before meals.

Daily rate of active ingredients:

Creams, gels and ointments are applied to the diseased areas of the body 2-3 times a day with light massaging movements.

With the simultaneous use of oral and external chondroprotectors, the manufacturer asks to take into account the maximum daily dosage indicated in the description of the funds.

Side effects

Despite the relatedness and usefulness of the main components to the tissues of the joints and cartilage, an increase in their concentration in the body can cause a number of serious side effects from:

• Gastrointestinal tract: flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, intestinal colic, indigestion, bleeding.
• Heart and blood vessels: tachycardia.
• Nervous system: headaches, dizziness, pain syndromes at the endings of peripheral nerves.
• Metabolism: increased risk of type 2 diabetes, fluid retention.
• Skin and immune system: allergic reactions, rash, Quincke's edema, less often anaphylaxis.

If undesirable manifestations occur, it is necessary to provide symptomatic assistance and stop taking dietary supplements.

In case of an overdose, the patient has pronounced side effects. It is necessary to flush the stomach and seek medical attention.

Chondroitin and glucosamine supplements should not be taken during any trimester of pregnancy and during breastfeeding, as the substances negatively affect the development of the fetus and accumulate in milk.

Chondroprotectors are not prescribed for children under 12 years of age. The use of supplements by adolescents entails great risks and is only possible in cases where the development of a serious illness is more likely than possible harm and side effects.

Interaction with other medications

Chondroitin-glucosamine complex can be prescribed as part of complex therapy with steroid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamins, minerals, tetracycline antibiotics. At the same time, the absorption and effect of antibacterial drugs of the penicillin group is significantly reduced.

The additive does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and engage in activities requiring increased concentration.

Expiration date and storage

It is necessary to purchase a supplement or external agent after a doctor's prescription. You can store the product at room temperature for no more than two years from the date of issue.

The price per pack depends on the manufacturer, concentration and markup of the pharmacy chain. On average, capsules with chondroitin and glucosamine can be purchased for 500-800 rubles.

The most common brands of additives are chondroprotectors: Artrochell, Ultraflex, Artrokam, Glukazamin Plas, Artra, Honroxit, Hondra Evalar.

Without a diet and proper drinking regimen, supplements will be useless.

Watch the video: Glucosamine u0026 Chondroitin Poor Choice for Knee Pain. Consumer Reports (November 2024).