The Risks of Glucosamine Sulphate

Glucosamine sulphate is a common food supplement taken to allay the effects of arthritis or joint pain. Glucosamine sulphate is a normal component of cartilage and synovial fluid in the body. It can have several minor side effects including upset stomach and more serious but rare issues such as palpitations.

Allergic Reaction

• Some glucosamine sulphate is made from potentially allergenic sources.

  Because glucosamine sulphate is sometimes made from shellfish, there is a risk of allergic reaction in people with shellfish allergies or have iodine hypersensitivity. The National Library of Medicine advises caution, although several studies show there is not enough shrimp allergen in the product to cause reactions in most shrimp-allergic people.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

• Glucosamine sulphate can cause an upset stomach. Rarely, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, flatulence (gas), constipation, heartburn, and diarrhea have been reported.

Other Side Effects

• Glucosamine sulphate has also been implicated in insomnia, drowsiness, headache, skin reactions, sensitivity to the sun, and toughening of the nails. There are also risks of increased bleeding or altered blood-sugar levels, which should be taken into account in people with bleeding disorders, diabetes or hypoglycemia. Some other drugs, herbs and supplements can increase these risks, which must be taken into account if considering also taking a glucosamine sulphate supplement.

Risks For Subgroups

• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), an ingredient commonly added to glucosamine supplements, has a tentative unproven link to autism in children. The National Library of Medicine does not recommend glucosamine supplements be taken by children under 18 or pregnant women because of a lack of scientific safety evidence.