Glucosamine is the only product we can prescribe to help rebuild the cartilage within damaged joints. Glucosamine should be taken by anyone who is over 50 and/or has arthritis or joint problems. There are however, a few considerations that need to be made when taking glucosamine:

1. Glucosamine does not work like a drug pain killer.

Glucosamine does act as an anti-inflammatory and is great for pain relief. In fact many studies show that it trials better than drug medications. However, you cannot take glucosamine when you feel the pain - you must take it consisently.

2. Glucosamine must be taken for 3 to 6 months for full effect.

It usually takes many years to develop arthritic changes within the joints. Indeed many sufferers have a life time of wear and tear. For full effect Glucosamine must be taken for longer periods. I often start patients on a double dose of glucosamine (depending on the severity of their condition) for the first 3 to 6 months. After their arthritic symptoms decrease we then reduce the dose to normal levels for ongoing joint support and prevention of further arthritic changes. Indeed I have had many patients that continue to get better the longer they are on the product.

3. Glucosamine sulphate is the one to take.

The market has been flooded with cheaper and inferior versions of glucosamine called glucosamine hydrochloride. The clinical trials that verified the efficiency of glucosamine utilised the sulphate form NOT the hydrochloride form. As a result Emed recommends products with glucosamine sulphate.

4. Pick your Glucosamine product to suit your needs.

If you add some co-factors with glucosamine you can enhance the therapeutic effect of the formula. Things like chondroitin, bromelain and MSM can dramatically improve the effectiveness of the glucosamine - but they do come at a cost.

Typically, if you have a mild case of arthritis you may start with a straight glucosamine product, however if you have significant problems you will benefit most from the stronger formulas.

5. You need to take Glucosamine Two to Three times a day.

Glucosamine sulphate has a half life of 15 hours in the body, therefore supplementing twice daily with a time release 500 mg glucosamine or three times a day with normal 500 mg formula is the best way to ensure you are getting the benefits from your glucosamine product.

Chondrocare Excel combines the proven joint support of gluocosamine sulphate and chondroitin in combination with cartilage factors designed for growth and repair of damaged connective tissues. Chondrocare Excel is our strongest formula but it only comes in a powdered form. If you are in real trouble with arthritis then this is the formula fo you.

The Joint Ease formula is unique because it incorporates Glucosamine Sulfate in tablet form with herbs such as Boswellia serrata, and Curcuma longa (Turmeric), which have been used traditionally to treat both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is a popular formula with many patients.

ArthroGuard contains Glucosamine sulphate, Chondroitin sulphate and Bromelain to promote healthy cartilage and joint function in osteoarthritis. Glucosamine sulphate and Chondroitin sulphate assist in the formation of cartilage and connective tissue. Bromelain is an anti-inflammatory agent that helps to reduce swelling and tenderness.

Innovative Therapies Arthrex contains glucosamine sulfate and type II collagen, which are essential components of cartilate that can help to reduce joint pain and inflammation. Gelatin is included in this formulation as it helps to reduce joint pain through the stimulation of collagen production. The strongest form of calcium and silica is included as the support of bone health is crucial for individuals with osteoarthritis, as arthritis damages the bone as well as cartilage and connective tissues. A complete and effective joint and bone powdered supplement.

Blackmores MSM Glucosamine Chondroitin Joint Support combines glucosamine and chondroitin with methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) however they once again use the cheaper form - glucosamine hydrochloride. The MSM and chondroitin do provide a good mid-priced product.