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Glucosamine is a natural compound that is found in healthy cartilage, and glucosamine sulfate is a constituent of glycoaminogylcans in cartilage and synovial fluid, the substance that helps cushion the joints. People who have arthritis frequently take glucosamine sulfate, especially those who have osteoarthritis of the knee, because it provides symptom relief, apparently because it strengthens cartilage and helps with glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Because of glucosamine’s effectiveness, many people can reduce or even eliminate their need for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to treat their arthritis symptoms.
Unlike its frequent companion, chondroitin, glucosamine seems to have some anti-cancer properties when it comes to prostate cancer cells. In a study published in Cancer Cell International in 2009, researchers reported that glucosamine suppressed the proliferation of selected human prostate cancer cells in the laboratory. (Chesnokov 2009)
For osteoarthritis, a typical dose is 500 mg three times daily of glucosamine for 30 to 90 days. (University of Maryland) Mild side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, bloating, and gas may occur. These may be alleviated if you take the supplement with food.
References
Chesnokov V, Sun C, Itakura K. Glucosamine suppresses proliferation of human prostate carcinoma DU145 cells through inhibition of STAT3 signaling. Cancer Cell Intl 2009; 9:25.
University of Maryland Medical Center: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/glucosamine-000306.htm
