The long-term use of glucosamine is medically safe

Nearly everyone develops arthritis (aching joints) as they age. For this reason, people spend billions of dollars on drugs and supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve their joint pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate reduce arthritis symptoms by 20% in people with moderate to severe arthritis. (New England Journal Medicine, 354: 795-808, 2006) These supplements are as effective as anti-arthritis medications in reducing symptoms.

In a study conducted with rats, researchers at the University of Kentucky found that glucosamine supplementation increased cholesterol levels and blood lipid levels - both important risk factors for coronary artery disease. However, long-term use of the supplement had no effect on diseases of the blood vessels, so it can be assumed that it is safe to take. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are relatively inexpensive and have no side effects in most people. (Journal Nutrition, 136:2856-2861, 2006)