This preparation is indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, spine, hand, and other locations as a dietary supplement. It is also beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis, sports injuries, migraine, different skin problems (e.g., psoriasis), vascular complications (e.g., atherosclerosis), kidney stones, and inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, leaky gut syndrome).

Glucosamine is a natural amino-sugar, produced by the body and found in certain foods. It is the most fundamental building block required for the biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as hyaluronic acid, keratan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate. GAGs bind with protein and form proteoglycans, the essential building block of articular cartilage. When cartilage in a joint deteriorates, osteoarthritis develops. It also helps to form ligaments, tendons, nails, and various other connective tissues. When we take artificially synthesized glucosamine sulfate supplement, it increases glucosamine levels in the body, thus facilitating the production and repair of cartilage. Glucosamine also activates chondrocytes in the cartilage, which help produce GAGs and proteoglycans.

Chondroitin sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan (acid mucopolysaccharide) found in connective tissue, especially in the articular cartilage of all mammals. Chondroitin sulfate supplement acts similarly to glucosamine sulfate, since it also provides a substrate for proteoglycans. Chondroitin also protects existing healthy cartilage from premature decline by preventing the MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) enzyme that breaks down proteoglycans.

Combining glucosamine with chondroitin sulfate shows a synergistic effect. Data supports that this combination has been shown to be very effective in severe cases of osteoarthritis, treating both the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and modifying disease progression. It prevents osteoarthritis in normal adults. In osteoarthritic pain, it is as effective as NSAIDs with significantly better tolerability and clinical compliance. It is also helpful during the repair phase of musculo-skeletal soft tissue injuries such as tendon or ligament strains.

250/200 mg tablet: 1 to 2 tablets, three times daily. The dose may be adjusted according to the response to the drug and body weight. Doses can be tapered after 60 days as per individual requirements and for cost convenience.

Typical dosage recommendations based on body weight are as follows:

• Under 54 kg: 1000 mg glucosamine sulfate & 800 mg chondroitin sulfate per day
• 54 kg to 91 kg: 1500 mg glucosamine sulfate & 1200 mg chondroitin sulfate per day
• Over 91 kg: 2000 mg glucosamine sulfate & 1600 mg chondroitin sulfate per day

750/600 mg tablet: 1 tablet twice daily or as directed by the physician.

There have been no reports of significant drug interactions of Glucosamine and Chondroitin with antibiotics, antidepressants, antihypertensives, nitrates, antiarrhythmics, anxiolytics, hypoglycemic agents, antisecretives, or antiasthmatics. Chondroitin may enhance the blood-thinning effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin and heparin.

There are no known contraindications for Glucosamine and Chondroitin. However, proven hypersensitivity (e.g., allergy to shellfish or sulfur) to Glucosamine and Chondroitin is a contraindication.

Safety studies with Glucosamine Sulfate and Chondroitin Sulfate show no demonstrable side effects. Rarely occurring side effects (such as mild and reversible intestinal flatulence) are almost like placebo.

Women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should not supplement with Glucosamine Sulfate or Chondroitin Sulfate. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have not been studied enough to determine their effects on a developing fetus. No studies have evaluated the use of Glucosamine and Chondroitin during pregnancy or lactation. They should be taken with caution and medical advice during pregnancy and lactation.

Patients with diabetes mellitus are advised to monitor blood glucose levels regularly when taking Glucosamine. No special studies were performed in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency. The toxicological and pharmacokinetic profile of Glucosamine and Chondroitin does not indicate limitations for these patients. However, administration to patients with severe hepatic or renal insufficiency should be under appropriate medical supervision. Children should not be supplemented with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.

Stimulation of Cartilage formation

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.