✅ Sportswear chondroitin glucosamine

It is a pity that many people, believing in advertising, throw away money to purchase another gel at the pharmacy to eliminate pain in joints and ligaments. Trying to buy the best pain reliever, few people resort to full treatment. But in the 21st century there are no problems with this. There are special drugs that can restore the full functioning of ligaments and joints, as evidenced by thousands of reviews. Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM is the full name of the product that will be discussed in this article.

Medical point of view

Several factors lead to joint pain, including physical damage or wear and tear. After all, as you know, any composition consists of cartilage, joint fluid and tissue. For these purposes, the body has processes that synthesize special substances that ensure the functioning of joints and ligaments.

Glucosamine. Corrector of cartilage and bone metabolism. Part of the joint fluid.
Chondroitin. A component of cartilage from the joint fluid. Able to accumulate calcium and strengthens connective tissues of the joint.
Methylsulfonium methane (MSM). The organosulfur compound is involved in the metabolism of cartilage tissue. Participates in cell renewal and preservation of muscles and tissues from damage.

Not only physical activity, but also age leads to the fact that the components that regulate the functionality of joints and cartilage begin to be produced by the body in smaller proportions. This is the first step towards purchasing drugs for treatment. So that people do not look for components separately, many pharmaceutical companies have created a complex medicine that has only positive reviews - Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM.

Chondroprotective properties

In addition to painkillers, glucosamine and chondroitin have chondroprotective properties, although the effect becomes noticeable only after a long time. A group of Canadian scientists led by J. Raynauld (J. Raynauld, 2021, google translate) studied the effect of a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin on the volume of articular cartilage in osteoarthritis for 6 years. Control was carried out using magnetic resonance imaging. After 6 years, cartilage loss was less in patients taking the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin , and the difference between the groups did not become apparent until after 2 years of regular use.

“The chondoprotective properties of glucosamine chondroitin increase after several years of use”

This information is confirmed by a review article by K. Vangsness in which the scientist analyzes the results of studies on the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin published since 1969. In many studies, the difference between the control and experimental groups became noticeable only after 6–9 months of taking the drug. From this, the authors conclude that the chondroprotective effect of glucosamine and chondroitin directly depends on the duration of use . The review also confirmed the pain-relieving properties, the ability to improve joint function, and the exceptional safety of the products.

"Tasting" in sports

In our country, professional athletes - athletes and fighters from all contact sports - were the first to learn about the complex drug. The recommendations of the last century for treating injuries with all sorts of ointments have become obsolete, people are actively searching for life-saving medicines. Ultimate Nutrition Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM was the first drug that gave positive results in treatment. The product is presented in the form of tablets or capsules, which, in addition to the main components, contain ingredients involved in the metabolism of cartilage joints, components to enhance the effect of the drug and taste sweeteners. The initial purpose of the medication, which in our country is sold as a dietary supplement (BAA), is to eliminate pain in the joints and back. It is also recommended to use to relieve inflammatory processes occurring in the knee joints.

Glucosamine and chondroitin in medical practice in various countries

In Europe, both of these compounds are considered drugs and belong to a class of drugs under the general term SYSADOA (Slow Acting Drugs for Osteoarthritis). Under this name, glucosamine and chondroitin are mentioned, for example, in the recommendations (2003, pdf., English) of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR). The list of drugs based on glucosamine chondroitin, registered under various trademarks, consists of more than a hundred names.

In Europe and Russia, glucosamine and chondroitin are recognized as beneficial to health: these substances are included in many medicines produced in these countries. In Russia, there are both dietary supplements and medicines based on glucosamine and/or chondroitin. As of May 2021, the following drugs based on the glucosamine and chondroitin complex were listed in the State Register of Medicines:

Tazan,
Chondroglucide,
Chondroflex,
Teraflex,
KondroNova,
Arthra and others.

As for dietary supplements, several dozen products in this category, both domestic and foreign, are registered on the Rospotrebnadzor website.

In the United States, glucosamine and chondroitin are approved for use exclusively as dietary supplements due to mixed opinions in the scientific community.

Dietary supplement or medicine?

All over the world it is generally accepted that dietary supplements are a placebo. And there is no benefit to the body in this. It is not clear for what reasons in the post-Soviet space, all sports nutrition including protein, vitamins and amino acids are classified as “dietary supplements”. This also applies to Ultimate Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM, reviews of which mostly speak of it as a highly effective medication rather than a placebo. In any case, trust begins with the brand. A world-famous sports nutrition manufacturer will not produce a product that does not work, because this way it will lose consumers. Advertising in the media is always questioned, you can’t argue with that. But reviews from people who have tried the drug themselves have enormous power and influence. You can check the veracity of a review in different ways. One of them is to search for the author on social networks and then communicate through correspondence. The second way would be to purchase, because the price of 1000 rubles is not the amount for which it is worth saving on your own health.

Unprofitable competitor

Around the dietary supplement Ultimate Nutrition Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM, which was the first to appear on our market, controversy regarding the effectiveness of the treatment continues to persist. First of all, the dosage is questioned, which is five times higher than recommended for use in pharmaceutical preparations. So, one serving contains 1.5 grams of glucosamine and 1.2 g of chondroitin with MSM. In other cases, the complex consumption of three components at once is questioned. After all, pharmaceutical drugs offer all components for sale separately. In such situations, only one conclusion suggests itself - it is not profitable for someone to have a competitor on the market who offers the same product, but at a much lower price. Take, for example, the pharmaceutical drug “Solgar” (Extra Strength Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM 60 tab), reviews of which can be found on any medical resource. Grateful patients got rid of joint pain and crunching knees. But if you compare the composition of servings of both products, it turns out that their composition and dosage are identical. The only difference is the price - Solgar costs about 3,000 rubles, and Ultimate is three times cheaper!

Content

Chondroitin
is an important structural component of cartilage tissue and ligaments, which increases their strength under compression and tension. Chondroitin sulfate is formed in the body by cartilage tissue and is part of the synovial fluid of joints, which performs a lubricating function.

The supplements are made by extracting the active substance from the trachea of cattle, pigs and shark cartilage.

Function in the body Edit

Chondroitin performs several functions in the body:

It is part of cartilage, giving it elasticity and shock-absorbing properties by retaining water in the tissue (loss of chondroitin in cartilage is the main cause of osteoarthritis).
Increasing the strength of the connective tissue of the ligamentous apparatus (relevant in bodybuilding and powerlifting).
Suppression of the activity of enzymes that destroy connective tissue (elastase, peptidase, etc.)
Elimination or reduction of chronic joint pain associated with inflammation and degenerative processes
Cartilage regeneration (relevant for people involved in bodybuilding and other heavy sports).
It is part of the synovial fluid, which ensures the sliding of articular surfaces and also provides nutrition to cartilage.
Improving skin properties

Like glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin has recently been actively used as a dietary supplement for the treatment of osteoarthritis and other joint diseases accompanied by degeneration of cartilage tissue. Chondroitin sulfate is recommended for preventive purposes during weightlifting. However, according to recent studies, its effectiveness has been questioned.

The effectiveness of chondroitin

is confirmed by the following independent studies:

Bourgeois F, Chales C, Delais J, Delcambre B, Kuntz JL, Rozenber S. Efficacy and tolerance of chondroitin sulfate 1200 mg/day vs chondroitin sulfate 3×400 mg/day vs placebo. Osteoarth Cart 1998;6 Suppl A:25-30.
Uebelhart D, et al. Intermittent treatment of knee osteoarthritis with oral chondroitin sulfate: a one-year, randomized, double-blind, multicenter study versus placebo. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2004 Apr;12(4):269-76.
Bucsi L, Poor G. Efficacy and tolerability of oral chondroitin sulfate as a symptomatic slow acting drug for osteoarthritis (SYSADOA) in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarth Cart 1998;6 Suppl A:39-46.
Pavelka K, Bucsi L, Manopulo R. Double-blind, dose effect study of oral CS 4&6 1200 mg, 800 mg, 200 mg against placebo in the treatment of femoro-tibial osteoarthritis. Litera Rheumatol. 1998, 24: 21-30.
Morreale P, Manopulo R, Galati M, Boccanera L, Saponati G, Bocchi L. Comparison of the anti-inflammatory efficacy of chondroitin sulfate and diclofenac sodium in patients with knee osteoarthritis. J Rheumatol 1996;23:1385-91.
Uebelhart D, Thonar EJMA, Delmas PD, Chantraine A, Vignon E. Effects of oral chondroitin sulfate on the progression of knee osteoarthritis: a pilot study. Osteoarth Cart 1998;6 Supp A: 39-46.
Leeb BF, et al. A metaanalysis of chondroitin sulfate in the treatment of osteoarthritis. J Rheumatol. 2000 Jan;27(1):205-11.

Ineffectiveness of chondroitin

is confirmed by the following independent studies:

Simon Wandel, Peter Jüni, Britta Tendal, Eveline Nüesch Effects of glucosamine, chondroitin, or placebo in patients with osteoarthritis of hip or knee: network meta-analysis. BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. (5.07.2010).
Clegg DO, Reda DJ, Harris CL, et al. (February 2006). "Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and the two in combination for painful knee osteoarthritis." N.Engl. J. Med. 354 (8): 795–808. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa052771. PMID 16495392.
Rozendaal RM, Koes BW, van Osch GJ, et al. (February 2008). "Effect of glucosamine sulfate on hip osteoarthritis: a randomized trial." Ann. Intern. Med. 148 (4): 268-77. PMID 18283204.

In the USA, this chondroitin sulfate is included in the list of dietary supplements, although in 22 other countries it is a medication. For this reason, America does not have any production standards. According to studies, it was found that only 10-15% of dietary supplements called “chondroitin” sold on the American market fully correspond to their name in composition.

In European countries, such a problem does not exist, since the production of chondroitin is controlled according to all pharmacological standards. For the same reason, medications with chondroitin have a higher level of quality.

If we compare the price-quality ratio, then preference should be given to sports supplements. So, if the concentration lags by 10-30%, the price of additives can be 2-3 times lower.

Best Supplements Edit

The highest quality indicators were obtained when testing the following supplements (it is better to purchase complex supplements that also include methylsulfonylmethane, glucosamine sulfate and other active ingredients):

Bone Boost by SAN
Animal Flex by Universal Nutrition
Glucosamine + UNIT from ESM
Glucosamine + CSA Super Strength from Optimum Nutrition
Glucosamine + Chondroitin from Weider
Glucosamine + Chondroitin + MSM from Ultimate Nutrition

Historically, humans naturally consumed chondroitin sulfate and other chondroprotectants through the consumption of foods such as tendons and cartilage from animals, birds, and fish. In the diet of modern humans, the proportion of chondroitin has been significantly reduced, so some scientists believe that its additional intake can only have a beneficial effect on human health.

During clinical trials, no side effects were identified, and no overdose of chondroitin was recorded. Recent studies have confirmed that it is one of the safest remedies for the treatment of osteoarthritis and other diseases of the joints and ligaments. This is due, among other things, to the absence of any drug interactions.

The daily dose of the drug is 800-1200 mg, usually taken in 2 doses, immediately after meals. It should be noted that the dose is relevant when using highly concentrated products (extracts containing more than 95% of the active substance). Supplements with lower concentrations should be taken in equivalently larger doses. Studies have shown that chondroitin sulfate is quickly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Ointments and creams are ineffective

, since the substance penetrates the skin very poorly.

When engaging in bodybuilding for preventive purposes, it is recommended to take sports supplements with chondroitin at a dose of 800 mg per day for 1 month, 2 times a year. If you experience problems with joints and ligaments (frequent sprains, joint pain, etc.), take a course of chondroitin sulfate at a dose of 1200 mg per day, for 2 months, 2-3 times a year.

Guide to joint support by Jim Wright, PHD
Monfort J, Pelletier JP, Garcia-Giralt N, Martel-Pelletier J. Biochemical basis of the effect of chondroitin sulfate on osteoarthritis articular tissues. Ann Rheum Dis 2007; doi:10.1136/ard.2006.068882 .
Bourgeois F, Chales C, Delais J, Delcambre B, Kuntz JL, Rozenber S. Efficacy and tolerance of chondroitin sulfate 1200 mg/day vs chondroitin sulfate 3×400 mg/day vs placebo. Osteoarth Cart 1998;6 Suppl A:25-30.
Jamie G. Barnhill, Carol L. Fye, David W. Williams, Domenic J. Reda, Crystal L. Harris, and Daniel O. Clegg. Chondroitin Product Selection for the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial. J Am Pharm Assoc. 2006; 46:14–24.
Gichev Yu. Yu., Gichev Yu. P. Guide to micronutrientology. The role and significance of biologically active food additives. - M.: "Triad-X", 2006. - 264 p. — P. 151

Questions for the market leader

Even from the happiest buyers of Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM Ultimate Nutrition, reviews about the positive qualities of the drug end with several questions to the manufacturer regarding the discomfort of taking the miracle drug. Firstly, the tablets are huge, and not everyone can swallow them the first time. Naturally, during the reception the person experiences discomfort. And considering that the daily dosage consists of three giant tablets, there is a great desire to stop treatment. The second question concerns recommendations for use. Apart from instructions about taking three capsules daily, nothing is said about the duration of treatment. It’s quite difficult to guess for yourself, because the manufacturer presented packages of 30, 60 and 90 capsules on the market. On the official website of the manufacturer, except for advertising posts, it will not be possible to find detailed information about the course of treatment, so patients have to solve this problem themselves. As a result, people who leave numerous reviews recommend taking Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM for at least one month.

Treatment of all diseases

It's funny that the product Maxler Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM, reviews of which can be found in the media, is positioned not only as a product intended to eliminate joint pain. The drug, according to the manufacturer, can improve the condition of the walls of the bronchi, eliminate disorders of the digestive system, enhance the regeneration of muscle fibers and improve the lives of many patients suffering from spinal diseases. This is not to mention the minor “side” effects of the drug that can improve the condition of nails, skin and hair.

The composition of this drug, unique in its actions, is interesting. Glucosamine – 1.5 g, chondroitin and MSM 1.2 grams each in one serving, which consists of three tablets. Almost no different from its cheaper competitor Ultimate. As one famous athlete said to a popular publication among athletes: “For every buyer there will always be the necessary product in the price category he needs, and no one needs the truth of pricing.”

Studies on the effectiveness of a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin in osteoarthritis

Glucosamine and chondroitin are effective for osteoarthritis and alone. But their combination enhances the therapeutic effect . Proof of this, in particular, is the large-scale study GAIT (Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial), which was conducted over 24 weeks and cost $1.5 million. The study involved 1,583 patients from 16 clinics. The average age is 58 years, the average duration of illness is 10 years. , the effectiveness of glucosamine chondroitin for relieving pain in various joint disorders was established :

Good offer

The buyer may be interested in the product Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM SAN, the reviews of which are quite good. A serious manufacturer in the field of professional sports nutrition can rightfully be considered a competitor, because at a price of 700 rubles there are no analogues. SAN technologists did not invent their own dosage, trusting the Ultimate company. This also affected the price - it is the same as that of the competitor. What then is the buyer's interest? Firstly, sports nutrition from SAN, along with high quality, has a competitive price that attracts athletes. Naturally, attachment to one brand will force the buyer to purchase goods from the same manufacturer. Secondly, unlike Ultimate Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM, SAN provides customers with the option of purchasing a pack of 180 capsules. Naturally, the cost of one serving is reduced, which allows the athlete to save considerable money.

Low cost solution

In Russian pharmacies you can find a drug called “Doctor Best” at a price of 2400-2800 rubles per jar. Its cost, naturally, is higher compared to its competitor Ultimate Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM. The reviews are mostly negative. Indeed, in addition to the main function - the treatment of joints and cartilage, the manufacturer decided to expand the list of capabilities of the drug, making it “manna from heaven”.

Improves blood circulation and reduces cholesterol.
Removing toxins and lactic acid from cells and introducing minerals and vitamins.
Treatment of varicose veins and heart defects.

This is just the beginning of a huge list of human diseases that a miracle drug can treat. Naturally, the price for such a drug is several times higher than that of competitors. There are a lot of questions for this manufacturer, which are unlikely to ever be answered by the users who asked them.

Collagen hydrolyzate

But collagen, which was looked at askance just a few years ago, has gained enormous popularity among athletes. In fact, it is a protein that is found in human connective tissue, or more precisely, in cartilage, joints and bones. In its own way, collagen hydrolyzate is a building material. And if the product Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM Ultimate Nutrition, reviews of which are in no way in doubt, provides an increase in synthesis to create building material with which a ligament, cartilage or tendon will be restored, then collagen, as a building material, enters in finished form into the body. Being absorbed by 95-98%, it reaches those organs where the need is felt, almost unchanged. Judging by the chemical composition, collagen hydrolyzate consists of 90% protein, but in no case can it replace protein - these proteins are not comparable. Numerous reviews of patients who were prescribed 10 grams of collagen per day after surgery indicate the complete elimination of scars on the human body after one month of use.

Touching on the topic of gelatin

Advertising is the engine of progress, but most people’s purchases are driven by reviews. Glucosamine & Chondroitin & MSM are no exception. After all, having entered our market at the beginning of the century, it became popular precisely because of the numerous reviews of people who were cured of ailments. It is in demand not only among athletes, but also among many people suffering from pain in the knee and elbow joints.

Along with taking medications, traditional medicine is widely known, which keeps up with the times. Thus, many traditional healers recommend using 10 grams of gelatin dissolved in water on an empty stomach. In many sports publications, such a solution is positioned with a placebo, but there is an opinion that this is being done at the behest of sports nutrition manufacturers. After all, many reviews of people who have solved their joint problems with the help of gelatin say the opposite.

How to take glucosamine?

The overwhelming number of scientific works devoted to studying the effect of glucosamine on knee pain implied the use of this supplement in fairly large quantities - about 2000-3000 mg per day. Lower doses have been shown to have no effect on the body (3). In addition, glucosamine is not at all effective in the form of ointments or creams.

It should be noted that the standard dosage of drugs with glucosamine (especially cheap supplements) is significantly lower than the specified amount - in fact, such tablets are simply not capable of having any noticeable effect on improving joint health. In fact, manufacturers of such sports supplements are misleading the buyer.

Glucosamine and chondroitin: which is better?

A good quality glucosamine supplement should contain around 300-500 mg of glucosamine per serving. This drug should be taken with food, three times a day. The total daily dose should be 900-1500 mg - lower doses of glucosamine are definitely not able to positively influence the condition of the knees and other joints.

The best type of glucosamine for absorption by the body is glucosamine sulfate salts, followed by pure glucosamine sulfate. Note that glucosamine hydrochloride is significantly less effective, and N-acetylglucosamine cannot be considered glucosamine at all and is a fundamentally different sports supplement.

Why is it important to take vitamins with zinc and magnesium? How do they affect metabolism and why is their deficiency dangerous?

Role in sports nutrition

The use of dietary supplements suppresses the production of enzymes that contribute to the development of inflammation in the joints and improves the quality of synovial fluid. One of the main qualities is its effect on calcium balance and a positive effect on bone healing in case of cracks and fractures.

Note. A person needs to maintain the musculoskeletal system. If you are malnourished, you should take chondroitin MSM.

Glucosamine chondroitin MSM is necessary for people involved in bodybuilding. For them, joint dysfunction and injuries are common. The reason for this is regular stress on the bone apparatus. Before the creation of biological additives, such problems were solved by surgical manipulations or, in cases with minor disorders, anti-inflammatory drugs were taken. But it is more convenient to prevent injury than to treat it. Therefore, athletes are now inclined to use supplements such as chondroitin MSM. Advantages: • gentle impact; • no side effects; • assistance in eliminating pathologies associated with its deficiency. For regularly recurring joint pain, athletes must include supplements containing chondroitin with glucosamine in their diet. Preparations containing this substance do not cause harm and have no contraindications. They can be taken for preventive purposes on a regular basis.

Purposes of using chondroprotectors for athletes

Playing sports, and especially professionally, is always closely associated with the risk of injuries and sprains, which leads to inflammatory processes in the joints.

Effects to be expected: • significant increase in resistance to force loads; • strengthening the entire skeletal system; • prevention of premature aging; • maintaining healthy skin, nails, hair, beauty; • pain relief after intense physical activity; • prevention of pain in joints and spine; • acceleration of the formation of fluid that lubricates the articular cartilage; • maximum elasticity of cartilaginous structures; • protection from injury and inflammation. Before using the drug with chondroitin and methylsulfonylmethane, you need to read the instructions. The dosage is selected individually. The amount of stress and health status are taken into account. This supplement is used not only in sports, but also to prevent joint diseases in old age. Glucosamine with chondroitin and MSM promotes recovery after surgery and fractures.

Mechanism of development of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a disease in which the gradual destruction of articular cartilage occurs. The causes of the disease are still not fully known, but it is assumed that microtrauma plays a decisive role in this process. Under the influence of negative factors that affect the cells of the synovial (articular) bursa and chondrocytes, a pathological cycle of inflammation is launched . The affected cells begin to produce enzymes that destroy collagen and chondroitin sulfate. The breakdown products of the intercellular matrix damage chondrocytes, they are destroyed, releasing inflammatory mediators that enhance the inflammatory process in the synovial bursa, which again produces catabolic enzymes - the circle closes.

Why do you need MSM?

Multisulfonylmetal, which is part of the drug, is responsible for the required amount of sulfur in the body. You can get this substance from vegetables, meat and dairy products. Only during thermal processing, most of the useful components of the product disappear, and it is much easier to drink the required dose of the drug than to buy and prepare a lot of products every day. During the period of active exercise, MSM in chondroprotectors replenishes the lack of sulfur, prevents the occurrence of skin diseases and allergic reactions. Playing sports is impossible without excessive stress on the muscles and the entire body as a whole. Joints are also at risk. If you do not provide help to the body in time, serious problems may arise. One of the main causes of joint pain is a lack of proteoglycans. It is necessary to promptly supplement its deficiency.

Attention. Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM is a supplement designed to provide protection against joint damage during exercise. Initially, this drug should be used by professional athletes.

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM from Natrol

Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM from Natrol

(USA) also targets joint support. In addition to glucosamine and chondroitin, it contains methylsulfonylmethane, but its amount is much less than in BeFirst (1200 mg) or NOW (300 mg). There are 90 tablets in a package. In addition to the main elements, the composition contains cellulose gum, stearic acid, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, glycerin, cellulose. The complex must be taken three times a day with food. The cost of the complex is 900 rubles.

methyl sulfatemethane – 83 mg of active substance;
chondroitin – 400 mg;
glucosamine – 500 mg.

Composition and form

Chondroitin is extracted from cow and shark cartilage. More often released in the form of sulfate. Essentially, it is a compound with a mineral salt. Chondroitin sulfates are components of cartilage in the human body, produced by joints. They are part of the synovial fluid. Functions: • contributes to the normalization of synovial fluid; • improves the elasticity of cartilage; • increases the level of strength of tendons and ligaments; • improves skin condition; • reduces the effect of enzymes that harm connective tissue; • significantly reduces pain in the joints. The composition of the drug includes: • glucosamine; • chondroitin; • msm (methylsulfonylmethane); • other excipients. The substance is obtained from chitin, a component of crustacean shells.

Note. The main raw materials for obtaining the substance are crabs, lobsters and shellfish.

Glucosamine is a component that can influence the restoration of damaged tissue. Without it, complete and rapid regeneration of tendons and ligaments is impossible. Those who are seriously interested in sports always run the risk of heavy stress on the entire body as a whole. Glucosamine chondroitin MSM helps withstand these loads without harm.

With insufficient amounts of glucosamine in the body, there is a lack of chondroitin sulfate, which causes crunching in the joints.

Effect on joints with osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease. It affects 20% of the world's population, and in people over 55 years of age the incidence of the disease increases to 50%, and over 65 – up to 70%. In Russia, a third of patients with this disease receive a disability group .

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, nimesulide, celecoxib, etc.) are traditionally prescribed for the treatment of osteoarthritis. In severe cases, anti-inflammatory hormones are used. These drugs are unsafe when taken continuously, causing side effects from the gastrointestinal tract (ulcer) and cardiovascular system (hypertension, angina, even heart attack). In addition, they do not affect the destruction of cartilage tissue, but only reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Therefore, many doctors agree that it is better in this case to take chondroitin and glucosamine.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural components of cartilage tissue . They are safe when taken over a long period of time and, most importantly, can stop the process of cartilage destruction, thereby preventing disability.

Glucosamine for osteoarthritis:

Reduces the production of inflammatory mediators (P.Chan, 2006, google translate);
Reduces the production of enzymes that destroy cartilage (EJ Uitterlinden, 2006, pdf, English);
Slows down oxidative stress, which stimulates the activity of inflammatory mediators (V. Calamia, 2010, google translate).

Chondroitin sulfate for osteoarthritis:

Reduces the activity of inflammation (F. Legendre, 2008, google translate);
Slows down the destruction of cartilage, providing a chondroprotective effect (M. Kubo, 2009, google translate);
Stimulates cartilage cells to synthesize the intercellular matrix (M. Kubo, 2009, google translate).

Rating of the best manufacturers

The Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM complex is used by athletes for the prevention and treatment of joint diseases. It is designed for the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Drug rating: 1. Know Foods sulfate 750 mg. 2. Helv Care 750 mg. 3. Solgar, complex with the addition of Ester-C. 4. Helve Care - a complex with a high content of components with methylsulfonylmethane - advanced triple strength. 5. Helv Care, a complex with MSM in tablets, to support joints. 6. Dr. Best - methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) with hyaluronic acid. 7. Know Foods Chondroitin and glucosamine. 8. Dr. Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM 240 Capsules. 9. Know Foods Liquid Chondroitin with MSM 32 oz. 10. Solgar, Glucosamine, hyaluronic acid + MSM. A biological supplement with a similar complex is a proven remedy. These drugs have long been used by foreign doctors to strengthen cartilage tissue and treat joints. Sports nutrition plays a fairly important role in performance. The Chondroitin MSM supplement is no exception. It does not promote muscle growth, but provides the body with nutritional components.

Many patients initially choose medications on the advice of friends or acquaintances. It is important to contact a competent specialist who will conduct an examination and prescribe the right drug. People who play sports professionally and use dietary supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin are protected daily from damage to cartilage tissue and joint diseases.

Source namenu.ru

Manufacturers and advertising platforms vied with each other to broadcast that glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM are almost a panacea for those experiencing problems with movement. However, only reviews about glucosamine and its companions really reflect the picture of treatment with them. We decided to collect the most interesting reviews online about what effect the most popular drugs on iherb, containing glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM, actually give, and draw conclusions.

People are encouraged to leave reviews by real experiences that were obtained after long-term use of glucosamine with chondroitin. Therefore, it is quite understandable their desire, through reviews, to share their own results with everyone who experiences similar diseases or discomfort, because in others who have not yet tried this remedy, there is hope for a speedy healing.

There are, of course, paid reviews with odes to glucosamine, but, firstly, these immediately give themselves away, and secondly, we will not consider such. We will analyze only the real work of glucosamine with chondroitin and reviews about them in order to show a plausible situation for each product separately.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects

Relatively recently, a similar-scale study was conducted comparing the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin with celecoxib. The six-month clinical trial included 606 patients from Poland, Spain, Germany, and France. The analgesic effect of the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin (pain reduction was noted by 50.1%) was almost identical to the effect of celecoxib (50.2%) . In addition, in more than half of the patients, swelling in the affected joints and stiffness decreased, that is, the overall functional state improved.

Russian authors did not stand aside either. Rodionova S.S. and Eskin N.A. conducted a large study (S. Rodionova, 2021, Russian) that included 3077 patients. The analgesic properties of glucosamine and chondroitin were studied. At the beginning of the study, 56.2% of patients needed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain. After 3 months of taking glucosamine and chondroitin, only 18.9% of subjects still needed painkillers . The authors of the work concluded that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin provides pain relief no worse than traditional analgesics.

Information about glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM

First, let's look at what science says about these wonderful substances designed to make our movement easier and, accordingly, our quality of life.

Glucosamine in the form of a monosaccharide is produced by the cartilage itself in our body. It participates as a non-renewable component in the production of chondroitin, lipids, synovial lubrication and proteins. The theory that if there is a shortage of it, replenishment from the outside should eliminate the issue of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, is still contradictory today, as are the reviews of practicing doctors.
Chondroitin is similarly synthesized within us with the participation of glucosamine, so that cartilage, bone tissue and lubricant are fully renewed, and sulfur and calcium are fixed. Along the way, chondroitin optimizes the production of hyaluronic acid, retains water in cartilage, and improves shock absorption. Reviews from doctors after research are mostly positive, but you need to drink at least 1.2 g per day for 3 months.
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is not recognized anywhere in medicine as a medicine, but there are reviews of studies that talk about the positive role of sulfur in this particular formula for health. There are no data on adequate dosage.

It turns out that only chondroitin has been confirmed in studies to be justified in its use, but reviews from clinical doctors indicate a serious side effect - chondroitin thickens the blood and is contraindicated in people prone to thrombosis. As for glucosamine and MSM, these are useful auxiliary components for the full integration of dietary chondroitin and its inclusion in biological work.

Sports supplements for joints

Athletes involved in strength training with weights, just like runners, very often face the problem of various pains in the knee joints. In addition, the problem of developing arthritis worries many people after forty to fifty years - in an attempt to cure their knees, they are ready to take any pill. However, are such supplements effective for joints?

The most advertised remedies for knee pain are glucosamine and chondroitin-based drugs, widely available in both pharmacies and sports nutrition stores. Advertising for such supplements promises not only quick relief from pain, but also strengthening of knee joints. Unfortunately, the real benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin are not so clear.

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a natural supplement obtained from shellfish shells. Research shows that regular use of glucosamine sulfate can reduce the rate of collagen (joint tissue) degradation, relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis. However, although glucosamine is comparable to acetaminophen (the standard drug for the treatment of osteoarthritis), its benefits are not always clear.

Scientific evidence supports the benefits of taking glucosamine rather for preventive purposes - regular use of drugs with this active substance can reduce the level of age-related collagen loss (1). Indirectly, this can be expressed in a reduction in joint pain. However, it is important to note that glucosamine supplements are not a cure—in other words, they do not cure anything.

What is chondroitin?

In most sports supplements for the treatment of joints, glucosamine is paired with chondroitin sulfate, promising and implying a synergistic effect from their intake. Unfortunately, there is simply no clear scientific evidence for the benefits of chondroitin for improving joint health, and existing studies can be interpreted in completely different ways (4).

Despite the fact that the vast majority of people taking drugs with glucosamine and chondroitin reported some reduction in knee pain, full-scale clinical tests could neither confirm nor refute these claims. In some cases, the effectiveness achieved with chondroitin was equal to that of the placebo groups.

What genuine reviews say about glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM in products on iherb

Reviews of those who have already taken glucosamine tablets with chondroitin, the most popular on the iherb site, need to be assessed adequately. After all, we do not know the medical history, the degree of destruction of cartilage and joints, whether there were contraindications, and whether the recommended regimen was followed. However, the general trend in reviews and ratings for each drug reflect an objective situation.

Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM from Doctor's Best

This glucosamine preparation, as reviews say, is a true bestseller. Indeed, the dose per day is sufficient (2 tablets x 2 times):

Glucosamine sulfate - 1.5 g;
Chondroitin sulfate - 1.2 g;
MSM - 1 g.

The product, one bottle of which holds 240 tablets, is declared by Doctor's Best to support the health, flexibility and strength of connective tissue, joints, skin, nails and hair.

There are 88% positive reviews about this product, 7% neutral reviews, 4% negative reviews. The drug rating is 4.5 stars.

What do people report in their reviews? How did the drug work for each?

“The remedy helped both my mother and me, we drink it again. The crunching has disappeared, mobility has increased, and the pain has evaporated.”
“After 2 weeks, don’t expect anything - you need at least 3 months. Excellent combination of dose/quality/price. You won’t find anything like this in pharmacies.”
“Don’t expect a miracle - the drug will only slow down further destruction of cartilage, but there won’t be new ones, like in youth. But you will be able to squat and walk without pain!”
“I’ve been drinking, as expected, for the second week now, and the result is zero! I hope there will be further improvements."
“I have several serious injuries, and nothing has moved in a month!”

Conclusions . Reviews on iherb about glucosamine from Doctor's Best give reason to speak in general about the high effectiveness of the product, if a person's expectations are not exceeded and if he takes the course.

Glucosamine + Chondroitin + MSM Move Free from Schiff

The glucosamine preparation, one jar of which consists of 120 tablets, is called “Joint Health”, is supplied with powerful doses of glucosamine and MSM, but the dose of chondroitin is more than modest. However, Schiff positions serious joint support on 5 points - strength, comfort, lubrication, flexibility and mobility. A serving consists of 3 tablets.

Glucosamine hydrochloride - 1.5 g;
MSM - 1.5 g;
chondroitin sulfate - 200 mg;
hyaluronic acid - 3.3 mg.

The Schiff glucosamine preparation received a rating of 4.6, as evidenced by reviews regarding its quality and effectiveness in practice.

Positive reviews were left by 90% of those who tried them, neutral reviews by 8%, and negative reviews by 2%.

“Within a month, the product relieved my long-suffering knees of pain, I can go down the steps and squat calmly! I recommend!”
“This glucosamine saved my mother from constant unbearable pain in the hip joint; she took it for 90 days.”
“I’ve been swallowing these pills for a week now, and the pain is still there!”
“I don’t know who praises Schiff tablets, but in half a month I haven’t felt anything yet!”

Conclusions. Neutral and negative reviews about glucosamine from Schiff were left by those who just started taking it and did not feel rapid changes.

Vegetarian Glucosamine + MSM from Now Foods

Glucosamine from shellfish, enriched with MSM, is intended for significant strengthening of joints and comfort during movement. The natural glucosamine formula is 100% suitable for vegetarians. There are 120 tablets in a jar; you are supposed to drink a portion of 3 tablets per day, containing the following amounts of components:

Green glucosamine - 1.5 g;
MSM - 1 g.

Now Foods Glucosamine Tablets are rated with 91% positive reviews, 4% neutral reviews, and 7% negative reviews. Overall score: 4.5 stars.

“I felt the first changes after 3 weeks, and by the end of the course I was already flying! Perfect!"
“This glucosamine is wonderful, but without parallel intake of chondroitin it works poorly!”
“I was prompted to buy this product by reviews of familiar doctors, but it is better to combine it with chondroitin, then the result will be 5 points!”
“Without chondroitin I had zero effect...”

Conclusions. Glucosamine tablets from Now Foods, judging by the reviews, are unlikely to give the stated results without additional use of the drug with chondroitin.

Glucosamine + Chondroitin + MSM from Jarrow Formulas

This glucosamine supplement from Jarrow Formulas is enriched with manganese and vitamin C and is touted as an optimal nutrition for the synthesis of cartilage, collagen and hyaluronic acid.

There are 240 tablets in a jar. A serving consists of 4 pieces, each with the following dosage components:

Glucosamine sulfate - 1.5 g;
chondroitin sulfate - 1.2 g;
MSM - 300 mg;
manganese gluconate - 1 mg;
ascorbic acid - 60 mg.

The drug earned 4.4 points and received 84% positive reviews, 10% neutral reviews and 6% negative reviews, and Russian-language reviews are exclusively laudatory!

“Jarrow is the best solution to support normal joint function, the dosage is optimal! I tested it on myself and my family – it works!”
“I combined it with hyaluronic acid and said goodbye to crunchy knees!”
“At this price you won’t find a similar dosage, and even with such quality!”
“The pill is too big, hard to swallow!” (English)
“I waited a long time, the delivery let me down, this has never happened before, I give it 2 stars!” (English)
“Expensive, it makes sense to take it when there’s a discount!” (English)

Conclusions. Reviews say that both as a stand-alone remedy and in combination with collagen or silicon, glucosamine tablets from Jarrow Formulas do the job. Negative reviews mainly relate to either the price, delivery, or the size of the tablet.

Glucosamine with Chondroitin Plus MSM from Now Foods

This glucosamine complex from Now Foods, where 180 pieces are packed in a jar, is recommended for the full functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Chondroitin is derived from bovine cartilage.

The daily serving size is 3 tablets, having the following composition and number of components:

Glucosamine sulfate - 1.1 g;
chondroitin sulfate - 1.5 g;
MSM - 300 mg.

Contains sodium - 150 mg.

Glucosamine Complex is rated 4.5 stars. Opinions were distributed as follows: positive reviews - 89%, neutral reviews - 7%, negative reviews - 4%.

“It works great! I’ve been ordering for a long time, I’m happy!”
“I support my back only with these pills!”
“An excellent product, it helped my mother quickly!”
“Be careful - there is sodium in there, it raises your blood pressure!” (English)
“Because of the sodium in the composition, my blood pressure began to jump!” (English)

Conclusions . In Russian, there are only rave reviews about this glucosamine; in English, reviews with a negative rating relate to sodium impurities and an increase in blood pressure indicators - hypertensive patients need to take this into account!

Criticism of effectiveness

You can learn about the benefits and effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin on any website that sells these drugs. Doubts about their effectiveness are much less common. Meanwhile, discussions on this issue continue in the medical community. Both glucosamine hydrochloride and glucosamine sulfate have been questioned as effective drugs.

For example, in 2010, a group of European scientists from Switzerland and Germany led by Simon Wandel (S. Wandel, 2010, google translate), after conducting a meta-analysis of studies, came to the conclusion that glucosamine, chondroitin and their combinations are no more effective than placebo .

Some experts believe that most of the studies conducted are not of sufficient quality. Therefore, the compilers of the latest American clinical guidelines (2016, pdf, English) for the treatment of osteoarthritis considered only one study to meet scientific criteria, and, based on a lack of data, did not recommend including glucosamine and chondroitin in the first line of therapy . The international society for the treatment of osteoarthritis OARSI writes about the same thing in clinical guidelines from 2014 (T. McAlindon, 2014, pdf, English), defining their effect as “unreliable”.

On the other hand, European guidelines (Olivier Bruyère et al. 2014, pdf) for the treatment of osteoarthritis still recommend SYSADOA (i.e. glucosamine and chondroitin alone or together) as first-line drugs. Russian clinicians agree (Denisov L.N., 2016) with the opinion of European colleagues, calling glucosamine and chondroitin the preferred agents in the initial stages of the development of osteoarthritis .

Numerous users of the World Wide Web, who decided to study the effect of glucosamine and chondroitin on their own, mostly speak positively about it. And since official medicine continues to debate, going through endless pros and cons, this is perhaps the only way to fully evaluate the properties of glucosamine chondroitin in joint therapy.

To make an informed decision, read other materials on our site:

What diseases does Glucosamine Chondroitin help with?

Source glukozamin.ru

Do glucosamine and chondroitin really strengthen joints? Do these sports supplements help get rid of knee pain and how to take them correctly?