 Cosamin DS is a dietary supplement that contains a combination of >glucosamine, >chondroitin (>Natrol Chondroitin Sulfate, >GNC A-Z Chondroitin Sulfate), and >manganese. Glucosamine and chondroitin are compounds similar to those found in the joints of healthy people. Some people believe that they may work together to reduce the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis. Some people also believe that the mineral manganese helps the body use glucosamine more effectively.Glucosamine provides the raw material needed by the body to manufacture cartilage. Joints need cartilage to function properly. Studies have shown that glucosamine relieves the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis as well as the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) >ibuprofen (brand names Motrin, Advil) and >piroxicam (Feldene). A typical dose of glucosamine is 500 mg three times a day, although this may vary. The body uses chondroitin to make tissues in the body including cartilage, bone, and tendons. Chondroitin provides structure and allows other molecules to move through the cartilage. This is important, because cartilage doesn't have a blood supply. Two studies in people with osteoarthritis have shown that chondroitin reduces joint pain and improves range of motion as well as >diclofenac (Voltaren), a prescription NSAID. A typical dose of chondroitin is 400 mg three times a day, although this can vary. Two recent studies with Cosamin DS showed that it relieved pain and stiffness of the knee in 48 to 52 percent of people when treated for four to six months. Although this information looks promising, more research needs to confirm the long-term safety and effectiveness of this supplement. Sources:
Davis, W.M. "The Role of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate in the Management of Arthritis," Drug Topics Supplement(1998).
Philippi, A. "Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Manganese Ascorbate for Degenerative Joint Disease of the Knee or Low Back: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study," Military Medicine 164 (1999).
Cosamin DS product information, Nutramax Laboratories, 1998.
Das, A. "Efficacy of a Combination of FCHG49 Glucosamine Hydrochloride, TRH122 Low Molecular Weight Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate and Manganese Ascorbate in the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis," Osteoarthritis and Cartilage 8 (2000).
This answer prepared 10/31/00.
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