Difference Between Glucosamine Sulfate & Glucosamine Hydrochloride

Glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl) and glucosamine sulfate are two different salts of glucosamine, a supplement made from shellfish. Both are used to treat a form of degenerative arthritis known as osteoarthritis.

History

• According to The Arthritis & Glucosamine Information Center, glucosamine sulfate was the first form of glucosamine that was tested in clinical trials. Since then, other forms of glucosamine, including the HCl salt, have been tested.

Identification

• According to The Arthritis & Glucosamine Information Center, the sulfate and hydrochloride ions are just carrier molecules for the glucosamine, so both products are equally effective.

Expert Insight

• Researchers have published conflicting information about the two forms of glucosamine. Some claim glucosamine sulfate does a better job of relieving arthritis pain, while others have demonstrated that glucosamine hydrochloride is more effective.

Cost

• According to Nutrasense, glucosamine sulfate is 50 percent more expensive than glucosamine hydrochloride but doesn't have any added value to warrant the additional cost.

Tip

• You can compare and contrast various forms of glucosamine using an online product guide from The Arthritis & Glucosamine Information.

Warning

• Avoid glucosamine sulfate or hydrochloride products that have added potassium chloride (KCl) or sodium chloride (NACl). They add salt to your diet and actually decrease the efficacy (pain-relieving effect) of the product.