General Description
Chondroitin sulfate is a major component of cartilage tissues, providing
structure and facilitating the travel of water and nutrients. Supplemental
chondroitin is derived from animal cartilage.
Health applications
- Osteoarthritis
- Cartilage repair
Primary functions
The role of chondroitin in the body is to provide the raw materials
for the production and maintenance of cartilage. Supplemental
chondroitin sulfate is popular among osteoarthritis sufferers
for promoting cartilage repair. It is often taken in combination
with glucosamine
sulfate, a closely related compound.
Chondroitin and osteoarthritis
Most of the research on chondroitin sulfate has focused on its
potential as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Studies have shown
chondroitin sulfate to be significantly more effective than placebo
in relieving osteoarthritis symptoms. 1-7
In some studies, the beneficial effects of chondroitin persisted
more than two months after use was discontinued. 6,7
Most of the research on chondroitin has been conducted
in Europe, and few long-term studies have been done. The National
Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and
the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin
Diseases (NIAMS) are currently funding a multicenter, four-year
study in the United States to determine the usefulness of chondroitin
and glucosamine sulfates, alone and in combination, in the treatment
of osteoarthritis.
Dosage/toxicity
Studies on chondroitin sulfate have used doses ranging from 800
to 1,200 mg per day, and it is generally well tolerated at this
dosage range. |
