Clinical inquiries: Do glucosamine and chondroitin worsen blood sugar control in diabetes?

J Fam Pract. 2006 Dec;55(12):1091-3.

Abstract

Despite theoretical risks based on animal models given high intravenous doses, glucosamine/chondroitin (1500 mg/1200 mg daily) does not adversely affect short-term glycemic control for patients whose diabetes is well-controlled, or for those without diabetes or glucose intolerance (SOR: A, consistent, good-quality patient-oriented evidence). Some preliminary evidence suggests that glucosamine may worsen glucose intolerance for patients with untreated or undiagnosed glucose intolerance or diabetes (SOR: C, extrapolation from disease-oriented evidence). Long-term effects are unknown; however, no compelling theoretical or incidental data suggest that long-term results should be different (SOR: C, expert opinion). Further studies are required to clarify the effects of glucosamine on patients with poorly controlled diabetes or glucose intolerance.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Glucose / metabolism*
  • Chondroitin / administration & dosage*
  • Chondroitin / adverse effects
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / complications
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / metabolism*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Glucosamine / administration & dosage
  • Glucosamine / adverse effects*
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Nonprescription Drugs / administration & dosage
  • Nonprescription Drugs / adverse effects
  • Osteoarthritis / complications
  • Osteoarthritis / prevention & control*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Reference Values

Substances

  • Blood Glucose
  • Glycated Hemoglobin A
  • Nonprescription Drugs
  • Chondroitin
  • Glucosamine