Effectiveness and safety of glucosamine and chondroitin for the treatment of osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Zhu X, Sang L, Wu D, Rong J, Jiang L
Published in Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
Abstract
Meta-analysis assessing symptomatic effects and safety of glucosamine, chondroitin, and their combination in osteoarthritis.
Methodology
Meta-analysis of 30 randomized controlled trials reported in 26 articles involving knee and/or hip osteoarthritis.
Key Findings
Chondroitin improved pain and physical function; glucosamine improved stiffness; evidence for combination therapy was insufficient.
Conclusions
Oral chondroitin may modestly relieve osteoarthritis pain and improve function, while results differ by product and outcome.
Limitations
Substantial heterogeneity across formulations and trials; combination subgroup evidence was limited; possible publication and funding bias.
Supplements Studied
Oral chondroitin is more effective than placebo on relieving pain and improving physical function. Glucosamine showed effect on stiffness outcome.
Oral chondroitin is more effective than placebo on relieving pain and improving physical function. Glucosamine showed effect on stiffness outcome.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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