Related Terms

• ACS4-ACS6, ADAMTS7B, aggrecan, agrin, biglycan, biostat, CDS, chondroitin sulfate A, chondroitin sulfate C, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, chondroitin sulfates, chondroitin sulfuric acid, chondroitin sulphate, chondroitin sulphate A sodium, chondroitin-4-sulfate, chondroitin-6-sulfate, chondroitinase ABC, chondroprotective agents, chondrosine, chonsurid, CHST11, condroitin, Condrosulf®, Condrosulf 400®, CS, CS/DS, CSA, CSC, CSPG D-galactosamine, decorin, dentin sialoprotein, DexSol®, D-glucuronic acid, disease modifying osteoarthritis drugs, DMOAD, extended chondroitin sulfate/dermatan, fucosylated chondroitin sulfate, GAG, galacotosaminoglucuronoglycan sulfate (Matrix®), glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine salts, glucosamine sulfate, glucosaminoglycan, Matrix®, neurocan, neuroglycan C, NGC, Optisol®, perineuronal nets, PNs, sodium chondroitin sulfate 0.2%, sodium chondroitin, Structum®, sulphate, symptomatic slow acting drug in osteoarthritis type XV, Syndecan, SYSADOA type XV, Uropol®-S, Viscoat®.

Background

• Chondroitin was first extracted and purified in the 1960s. It is currently manufactured from natural sources (shark/beef cartilage or bovine trachea) or by synthetic means. The consensus of expert and industry opinions supports the use of chondroitin and its common partner agent, glucosamine, for improving symptoms and stopping (or possibly reversing) the degenerative process of osteoarthritis.

Scientific Evidence

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

• Aging, allergies, Alzheimer's disease, analgesic, angina (chest pain), anticoagulant (blood thinner), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antithrombotic, atherosclerosis, bone healing, breast cancer, cardiovascular health, chronic venous ulcers, deep intra-osseous defects, gonarthrosis, gum disease, headaches, heart attack (treatment and prevention), high cholesterol, HIV/AIDS, hyperglycemia/diabetes, iron deficiency anemia, joint pain, joint problems (cartilage repair, disc degeneration, synovial fluid productions), kidney stones, leukemia, malaria, nerve regeneration, osteoporosis, premature birth prevention, respiratory ailments, rheumatoid arthritis, snoring, soft tissue injury (torn ligaments and tendons), spinal cord injury, sports injuries, venous leg ulcers, wound healing.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adult (18 years and older)

• Doses of 200-400 milligrams by mouth twice to three times daily, or 800-1,200 milligrams once daily have been used in studies. Higher doses (up to 2,000 milligrams) appear to have similar efficacy. In the treatment of osteoarthritis, full effects may take several weeks to occur.

• It is not clear what dose is optimal when used in combination with glucosamine or whether the combination is as effective as or more effective than either agent alone.

• For osteoarthritis, 50-100 milligrams as a single daily injection or divided into two daily injections has been used. Medical supervision is recommended.

Children (younger than 18 years)

• There is no proven effective dose for chondroitin in children.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

• Use cautiously if allergic or hypersensitive to chondroitin sulfate products. Use cautiously in patients with shellfish allergy, due to the possibility of allergic reaction. Hives, rash, sun skin sensitivity, and worsening of previously well-controlled asthma have been reported.

Side Effects and Warnings

• Chondroitin sulfate appears to be well tolerated for up to three years.

• Adverse effects that have been rarely reported or are theoretical include: headache, motor uneasiness, euphoria, hives, rash, photosensitivity, hair loss, breathing difficulties, subjective tightness in the throat or chest, exacerbation of previously well-controlled asthma, chest pain, elevated blood pressure, lower extremity edema, gastrointestinal pain/dyspepsia, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, transaminitis, increased risk of bleeding (theoretical), bone marrow suppression (animal research), and eyelid edema.

• Avoid in individuals with prostate cancer, or at increased risk for prostate cancer, due to a risk of increased spread or recurrence of prostate cancer.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women as effects are unknown, and there is structural similarity to heparin, a blood thinner that is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

• In theory, chondroitin may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

• Use cautiously with hyaluronidase or agents with hydrophilic (attraction to water) properties. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, to check for interactions.

• Also use cautiously when combining chondroitin with other agents that may cause sun sensitivity, as chondroitin may increase sun sensitivity.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

• In theory, chondroitin may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba, and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases.

• Based on preliminary data, chondroitin may increase iron absorption. It may also interact with or alter concentrations of calcium, camphor, glucosamine, manganese, peppermint oil, and shark cartilage.

• Use cautiously with herbs or supplements with hydrophilic (attraction to water) properties. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, to check for interactions. Also use cautiously when combining chondroitin with other agents that may cause sun sensitivity, as chondroitin may increase sun sensitivity.

Author Information

• This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

1. Bjordal JM, Klovning A, Ljunggren AE, et al. Short-term efficacy of pharmacotherapeutic interventions in osteoarthritic knee pain: A meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials. Eur J Pain 2007;11(2):125-138. View Abstract

2. Bourgeois P, Chales G, Dehais J, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of chondroitin sulfate 1200 mg/day vs chondroitin sulfate 3 x 400 mg/day vs placebo. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 1998;6 Suppl A:25-30. View Abstract

3. Braun WA, Flynn MG, Armstrong WJ, et al. The effects of chondroitin sulfate supplementation on indices of muscle damage induced by eccentric arm exercise. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2005;45(4):553-560. View Abstract

4. Clegg DO, Reda DJ, Harris CL, et al. Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and the two in combination for painful knee osteoarthritis. N Engl J Med 2-23-2006;354(8):795-808. View Abstract

5. Cohen M, Wolfe R, Mai T, et al. A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled trial of a topical cream containing glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and camphor for osteoarthritis of the knee. J Rheumatol 2003;30(3):523-528. View Abstract

6. Felson DT. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in knee osteoarthritis: where now? Nat Clin Pract Rheumatol 2006;2(7):356-357. View Abstract

7. Leffler CT, Philippi AF, Leffler SG, et al. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and manganese ascorbate for degenerative joint disease of the knee or low back: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Mil Med 1999;164(2):85-91. View Abstract

8. Mazieres B, Hucher M, Zaim M, et al. Effect of chondroitin sulphate in symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Ann Rheum Dis 2007;66(5):639-645. View Abstract

9. McAlindon TE, LaValley MP, Gulin JP, et al. Glucosamine and chondroitin for treatment of osteoarthritis: a systematic quality assessment and meta-analysis. JAMA 2000;283(11):1469-1475. View Abstract

10. Michel BA, Stucki G, Frey D, et al. Chondroitins 4 and 6 sulfate in osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, controlled trial. Arthritis Rheum 2005 Mar;52(3):779-86. View Abstract

11. Richy F, Bruyere O, Ethgen O, et al. Structural and symptomatic efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin in knee osteoarthritis: a comprehensive meta-analysis. Arch Intern Med 2003;163(13):1514-1522. View Abstract

12. Rozenfeld V, Crain JL, Callahan AK. Possible augmentation of warfarin effect by glucosamine-chondroitin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2004;61(3):306-307. View Abstract

13. Tallia AF, Cardone DA. Asthma exacerbation associated with glucosamine-chondroitin supplement. J Am Board Fam Pract 2002;15(6):481-484. View Abstract

14. Towheed TE, Anastassiades TP. Glucosamine and chondroitin for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis: evidence is widely touted but incomplete. JAMA 2000;283(11):1483-1484. View Abstract

15. Uebelhart D, Malaise M, Marcolongo R, et al. Intermittent treatment of knee osteoarthritis with oral chondroitin sulfate: a one-year, randomized, double-blind, multicenter study versus placebo. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2004;12(4):269-276. View Abstract