Glucosamine is a compound found naturally in the body, prepared from glucose and the amino acid glutamine. Glucosamine is required to create a molecule which is used in the development and restoration of cartilage and other body tissues. Production of Glucosamine slows with age.

Glucosamine is an amino sugar and a famous precursor in the biochemical mixture of glycosylated proteins and lipids. Glucosamine is found as a major component of the exoskeletons of crustaceans and other arthropods, in fungi and numerous higher organisms and is one of the most plentiful monosaccharides. It is formed commercially by the hydrolysis of crustacean exoskeletons.

Glucosamine is a popular and effective treatment for arthritis, or inflammation and deterioration of the joints. It is sold as a supplement in liquid or capsules, but is also used in some cosmetics and some sports drinks.

Glucosamine is frequently pooled with Chondroitin Sulfate, a molecule naturally found in cartilage. Chondroitin gives cartilage elasticity and is thought to stop the destruction of cartilage by enzymes. Glucosamine is occasionally combined with Methylsulfonylmethane, or MSM, in dietary supplements. Glucosamine supplements are widely used for osteoarthritis, chiefly knee osteoarthritis. In osteoarthritis, cartilage becomes rigid and loses its elasticity. This makes the joint prone to damage and may lead to ache, puffiness, loss of movement and further worsening.

Because glucosamine is naturally used by our bodies to create and mend joint cartilage, using glucosamine as a nutritional supplement is thought to aid in this. There is cautious optimism that glucosamine might lessen the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, and could even slow the onset of the conditon. Presently, physicians typically recommend a three month dose of glucosamine. If no progress is made after this time, its use is discontinued. A normal prescription for osteoarthritis consists of 1,500 mg of glucosamine sulfate to be taken once a day.

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