chondroitin sulfate

Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance that is present in connective tissues including bone, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and skin. Chondroitin is a major component of the extracellular matrix, the supportive structure in all tissues. Chondroitin is commercially produced either synthetically or from natural sources such as shark or cow cartilage, or algae. Chondroitin sulfate is often combined with other substances that promote bone and joint health and is available over the counter (OTC) in the U.S.

Chondroitin sulfate is used as a nutritional supplement in the treatment of osteoarthritis, an age-related degeneration of cartilage, the fibrous tissue that lines joints. Chondroitin is believed to help repair damaged cartilage, reduce joint inflammation and associated pain, swelling and stiffness. Preliminary studies indicate that chondroitin may reduce inflammation in the inner lining (endothelium) of blood vessels, and reduce the risk of plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) and consequently, the risk for heart attack (myocardial infarction).

Chondroitin is not available in dietary sources and can be taken only as supplements, which are available as tablets or capsules. Chondroitin has been suggested for use in many conditions other than osteoarthritis, but scientific studies for these uses are lacking. Suggested uses of chondroitin sulfate include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis
• High level of blood fats (hyperlipidemia)
• Heart disease from impaired blood flow (ischemic heart disease)
• Prophylaxis for risk of myocardial infarction
• Cataracts
• Preterm labor
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Colorectal and breast cancers

Warnings

• Do not use if you have any blood clotting/bleeding disorder or if you are taking blood-thinning medications. Chondroitin can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Preliminary research suggests chondroitin may contribute to the growth of prostate cancer cells. It requires more studies, however, it is safer to avoid chondroitin if you have, or are at risk for developing prostate cancer.
• Use chondroitin with caution if you have asthma, it may exacerbate asthma symptoms.
• Use with caution if you have diabetes, chondroitin may affect blood sugar levels.

Common side effects of chondroitin sulfate include:

• Stomach upset
• Nausea
• Epigastric pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Swelling (edema) of eyelid and lower limb
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Extra heartbeats (extrasystoles)
• Allergic reactions

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms or serious side effects while using this drug:

• Serious heart symptoms include fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness;
• Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady;
• Severe nervous system reaction with very stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, and feeling like you might pass out; or
• Serious eye symptoms include blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.

This is not a complete list of all side effects or adverse reactions that may occur from the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may also report side effects or health problems to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Labeling of chondroitin sulfate products may not be accurate. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate product and dosing for you.

Suggested dosing:

Adult:

Osteoarthritis

• 200-400 mg orally twice or thrice daily, OR
• 1000-1200 mg orally once daily
• Also used in combo with glucosamine

Prophylaxis for recurrent myocardial infarction (MI)

• Initial: 10 g orally divided thrice daily for 3 months THEN
• Maintenance: 500 mg orally thrice daily

Overdose

Chondroitin sulfate overdose is unlikely to cause severe adverse reactions. Overdose may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, which should resolve with discontinuation of chondroitin sulfate and sufficient fluid intake.

Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, who can advise you on any possible drug interactions. Never begin taking, suddenly discontinue, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s recommendation.

• Chondroitin sulfate has no known severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs.

The drug interactions listed above are not all of the possible interactions or adverse effects. For more information on drug interactions, visit the RxList Drug Interaction Checker.

It is important to always tell your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, as well as the dosage for each, and keep a list of the information. Check with your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions about the medication.

• There isn’t enough information on the safety of chondroitin sulfate use by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Avoid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do not use any dietary supplement without first checking with your healthcare provider, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Chondroitin sulfate is likely safe for most adults in recommended doses.
• Use chondroitin sulfate exactly as prescribed or as per label instructions.
• Check with your healthcare provider before taking any nutritional supplement, including chondroitin sulfate, particularly if you have any health conditions or if you are on regular medications.
• Dietary supplements often contain many ingredients. Check labels for the components in the chondroitin sulfate product you choose.
• Inaccurate labeling in chondroitin sulfate products is a concern. Some products may contain no chondroitin and some may contain more than the stated amount. Exercise caution and purchase products only from manufacturers of good repute.
• Chondroitin sulfate is marketed as a dietary supplement and is not regulated by the FDA. Products may differ in formulations and strengths, and labels may not always match contents; exercise caution in choosing your product.
• Store chondroitin sulfate safely out of reach of children.
• In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact Poison Control.