Effects of glucosamine, chondroitin, or placebo in patients with osteoarthritis of hip or knee: network meta-analysis
Wandel S, Juni P, Tendal B, Nuesch E, Villiger PM, Welton NJ, Reichenbach S, Trelle S
Published in BMJ
Methodology
Bayesian network meta-analysis of 10 large randomized trials (3803 patients) of glucosamine, chondroitin, or their combination in hip or knee osteoarthritis.
Key Findings
Chondroitin, glucosamine and their combination did not reduce joint pain or affect joint space narrowing to a clinically relevant degree compared with placebo.
Conclusions
Health authorities and insurers should not cover these supplements for osteoarthritis; new prescriptions are discouraged.
Limitations
Restricted to large trials, industry-funded trials showed larger effects, patient-level heterogeneity not fully captured.
Supplements Studied
Compared with placebo, glucosamine, chondroitin, and their combination do not reduce joint pain or have an impact on narrowing of joint space.
Compared with placebo, glucosamine, chondroitin, and their combination do not reduce joint pain or have an impact on narrowing of joint space.
Outcomes Measured
Chondroitin did not affect joint space narrowing compared with placebo.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.