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What is chondroitin?

Chondroitin is a supplement that has gained popularity among people with arthritis. The natural form is made from cow and shark cartilage; supplement manufacturers can also make a synthetic form of this protein in laboratories.

The body uses chondroitin to make new bone, tendons, and cartilage. Cartilage is the tough, white, fibrous portion of the joint that normally allows pain-free movement. Chondroitin is believed to help draw fluid into the cartilage, making it spongy and flexible. It's also touted to help vital nutrients enter the cartilage, which help keep it healthy. In clinical trials, the usual dose was 1200mg daily, either in one dose, or divided and taken in two or three doses per day.

Medical research has shown that chondroitin can reduce osteoarthritis pain. A recent scientific study revealed that 40 percent of people noticed an improvement in their symptoms. But, when compared to the prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication diclofenac (brand name Voltaren), chondroitin didn't seem to work as well and took longer to reduce pain.

While chondroitin may reduce pain for some people with arthritis, it is important to remember that it may not work for everyone. Future research is important for understanding the role of chondroitin in the treatment of arthritis.

Sources:
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.
The Review of Natural Products. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.
Morreale, P. "Comparison of the Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy of Chondroitin Sulfate and Diclofenac Sodium in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis," Journal of Rheumatology 23 (1996).
Silverman, H.M., J.A. Romano, G. Elmer. The Vitamin Book. Bantam Books, 1999.
McAlindon, T.E. “Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Treatment of Osteoarthritis: a Systematic Quality Assessment and Meta-analysis,” Journal of the American Medical Association 283 (2000).
Leeb, B.F. “A Meta-analysis of Chondroitin Sulfate in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis,” Journal of Rheumatology 27 (2000).
Deal, C.L. “Nutraceuticals as Therapeutic Agents in Osteoarthritis. The Role of Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Collagen Hydrolysate,” Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America 25 (1999).