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Chondroitin

The latest high-quality clinical trial done in France showed that CS is highly effective reducing pain and preventing the knee joint from being further damaged.

If you are planning to take chondroitin (also known as CS) for treating osteoarthritis, we suggest combining it with other natural supplements such as glucosamine, and or MSM to get the maximum benefit.

It is believed that by providing the body with a larger source of CS, the body would be able to repair the damaged cartilage, hence, helping to slow down or reverse osteoarthritis.

It is shown to be safe. It is not a pain reliever but works to repair the cartilage in the joints so it could take many months to show some benefit. In combination with glucosamine, some people have seen some benefits in about 4 weeks but it could take a lot longer, sometimes even up to a year.

Table of Contents

Evidence of Benefits (Leaf Rating System)

	Osteoarthritis / Arthritis CS is usually found in combination with glucosamine and/or MSM to treat osteoarthritis. The latest randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled research study (Kahan, 2009) showed that it is very effective in reducing pain and keeping the joint space from narrowing. Click here to see a list of natural remedies for treating osteoarthritis.
	Interstitial Cystitis A real-life multicentre clinical study showed that Uracyst solution given directly into the bladder helps with interstitial cystitis. This treatment option is shown to be safe.
	Eye Surgery / Dry Eyes There is good evidence that using CS in an eye solution helps with dry eyes after eye surgery.
	Heart Disease / Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction - MI) Some research study shows that CS might be helpful in preventing another heart attack in people who already had a heart attack. More studies will be needed before we can recommend taking CS for this health problem as there are much better natural remedies for preventing and treating heart disease.
	Pain There is no good research information on using CS for treating general pain symptoms.

Facts about Chondroitin

What is it?

CS is used to make cartilage. The cartilage tissues act to lubricate joints and cushion the bones. It is made from shark or bovine cartilage.

Some researchers believe that CS can also protect the cartilage from further damage by several different methods.

What other names is it known as?

In other parts of the world, it is also referred to as CS, CSA or chondroitin sulfuric acid.

Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses

Orally

arthritis
dry eyes
osteoarthritis
heart disease
heart attack (myocardial infarction / MI)
pain

Topically (on the skin)

arthritis
osteoarthritis
pain

Intravesical (infusion into the bladder)

interstitial cystitis.

Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings

Some minor side effects that have been reported.

It includes nausea, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, irritability and headaches.

Safety - The safety has been shown in many studies, some lasting up to 5 years.

Pregnancy - Avoid using if you are pregnancy and breast-feeding. There's no data available.

Common Drug Interactions

Warfarin - theoretical
Some experts think it might affect the blood-thinning effect of warfarin but there is no changes seen those taking CS with warfarin.

Monitor the PT or INR levels when starting or stopping chondroitin as a precaution.

Dosage & How to Take It

Osteoarthritis - The usual oral dosage is 200 to 400 mg two or three times daily with food. Some studies used doses of 1000 to 1200 once daily.

Preventing future heart attacks - Dosage used the research study is 1.5 to 3 grams taken three times daily.

Topically - CS creams may also contain glucosamine, Celadrin, capsicum, MSM, shark cartilage and/or camphor. It can be applied to the joints as needed.

Selected References for Chondroitin
Revised: July 13, 2009

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