Should people with osteoarthritis use glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate?

Studies about the use of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have shown mixed results in regards to effectiveness. The most authoritative and well-designed study conducted by the US National Institute of Health showed, however, that, after three years, the placebo group had the same statistical benefit as the glucosamine one and neither were as effective as a standard anti-inflammatory drug, Celebrex.

Despite that study, many patients feel benefit from the use of the supplements and I tell my patients to consider a 3-month trial if they are so inclined. If they are no better by then, they can stop it.

The main side-effects are the cost of the supplements, but it should be noted that chondroitin products are often extracted from sea creatures and may cause allergic responses to those with such a prior history.