Glucosamine therapy for treating osteoarthritis (Cochrane review)
Towheed TE, Maxwell L, Anastassiades TP, Shea B, Houpt J, Robinson V
Published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 randomised controlled trials of glucosamine in osteoarthritis
Key Findings
Pooled results favoured glucosamine for pain and function, but analyses restricted to adequately allocation-concealed trials showed no benefit; benefit was confined to trials using the Rotta preparation.
Conclusions
Apparent benefit of glucosamine is largely explained by trial quality and preparation used.
Limitations
Substantial heterogeneity; many older trials industry-funded.
Supplements Studied
In the 20 studies analysed, glucosamine was found to be superior to placebo for pain and function; however, when only studies with adequate allocation concealment were considered, glucosamine failed to show benefit.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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