Glucosamine is a molecule that contains both sugar and protein. Glucosamine can be man made or it may be obtained from natural sources such as exoskeletons or shells of crabs, lobsters, and other sea creatures. Glucosamine is an essential substance that the body uses to build and repair tissues such as cartilage, heart valves, mucous membranes, and synovial fluid--the jelly-like substance that fills the joints.

Many health professionals believe glucosamine, either by itself or in combination with chondroitin sulfate, may be effective when used in connection with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by prolonged wear and tear on the joints which in most cases leads to inflammation, breakdown, and eventual loss of joint cartilage. The tissues most affected by osteoarthritis are the knees and hips, as well as the joints in the hands. Two recent studies have lent additional proof that glucosamine is in deed useful when used in connection with osteoarthritis. Studies found positive results in hip or knee osteoarthritis. In these studies a "positive" result was one where there was 25% or more improvement in the treatment group compared with placebo group.

Dosage and Administration

The three forms of glucosamine available commercially are glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate, and N-acetyl glucosamine. The usual dose used by those with osteoarthritis is l,500 milligrams daily in divided doses. These three forms of glucosamine are available in 500 milligram capsules.