What are the Effects of Glucosamine HCI?

Glucosamine HCI (hydrochloride) is an amino sugar and precursor to protective tissues found in healthy joint cartilage, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Those who suffer from arthritic conditions of the bones and joints take glucosamine as a supplement to help control symptoms of their condition and fight against degenerative damage. Glucosamine HCI, compared with glucosamine sulfate, is one of the most cost-effective and widely purchased glucosamine supplements.

Joints

• In 1971, researcher K. Karzel discovered that glucosamine HCI, in addition to other glucosamine products, stimulated the production of the glycosaminoglycan layer, which helps protect joints, ligaments and tendons from wear and tear. This study was published in the scientific journal "Pharmacology" and showed that glucosamine HCI had a direct effect on the growth of cartilage tissues, acting as a precursor for a protective layer of cells that help strengthen and stabilize the joint structure.

Cartilage

• In 2004, the Osteoarthritis Research Society published a study in their journal "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage," where researcher E. Uitterlinden stated that glucosamine HCI significantly reduced the breakdown of osteoarthritic cartilage tissues in lab tests. This study indicates that glucosamine HCI has the effect of slowing down the chronic degenerative processes involved with osteoarthritis. Another study published in the "Journal of Rheumatology" in 2006 confirmed these ideas when researcher P. Chan found that glucosamine, as well as chondroitan sulfate, protected joints from inflammation and chemical breakdown.

Pain

• While there is a great deal of anecdotal support for using glucosamine HCI to reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis, researcher J. Houpt claimed in a study published in 1999 in the "Journal of Rheumatology" that there was no evidence to support this idea. Glucosamine HCI was not found more effective than a placebo in this 8-week trial, though J. Houpt commented that as many as 77 percent of the people who participated continued to use glucosamine HCI after the study ended. Glucosamine HCI is mildly anti-inflammatory, and this may be the reason for its reported benefit to pain.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

• In a study published in "Rheumatology International" in 2007, researcher H. Nakamura found that glucosamine HCI was effective in reducing symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. While glucosamine HCI did not appear to have any anti-rheumatoid effects or change the actual condition, it exerted significant pain relief in patients who were administered it. As a result, glucosamine HCI may be a useful supplement not just for those with osteoarthritis, but for those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis as well.

Toxicology and Allergies

• Glucosamine HCI is considered safe, and no side effects or drug interactions have been reported. A small percentage of the population may be allergic. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, closing of the throat or hives.