A recent update of a study on the long-term effects of glucosamine provides evidence the dietary supplement may help stop osteoarthritis from getting worse. Dr. Jean-Yves Reginster of the University of Liege, Belgium, presented his findings at the 2003 annual European Congress of Rheumatology meeting.

Researchers studied patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) who used glucosamine.  The scientists wanted to see whether their arthritis was stable or getting worse over time. The results, according to Reginster suggest glucosamine does provide a benefit. The original study was reported in The Lancet, (January 2001).

“Patients appear to have a clinical benefit independently of their degree of OA, but maximal structural benefit is achieved in patients with mild to moderate OA,” said Reginster, in a June 30, 2003 e-mail interview.

Doctors measured the space in the knee joint as an indicator of the progression of the disease. The space in the joint shrinks as arthritis gets worse. Researchers measured the joint-space width in the knee joint at the beginning of the study and again after three years.  

Original Study

Researchers put patients with knee arthritis in two groups. Participants took either 1500 mg of glucosamine or a placebo once daily for three years. Neither group knew whether they were getting the glucosamine or a placebo.

To provide a valid basis of comparison:

• Researchers took X-rays at enrollment and after one and three years.
• Doctors measured the joint-space width.  
• Arthritis symptoms were scored using a standard clinical index.

Patients taking a placebo showed a measurable joint-space loss and an increase in arthritis symptoms such as pain and stiffness. Glucosamine users showed no significant joint-space loss.  

Researchers believe the glucosamine results could be due to its effect on cartilage metabolism delaying further tissue breakdown in the joint.

Five-Year Follow-Up

Researchers performed five-year follow-up examinations with 101 patients.  X-rays showed a significant difference between the glucosamine and placebo groups in joint-space narrowing.  This suggests a slower progression of disease in the glucosamine group.  

Researchers also assessed the arthritis-related health-care usage and costs of the patients over time. This included the use of pills, injections, surgeries, X-rays, and visits to family doctors and arthritis specialists.  When the costs were totaled, the glucosamine group’s outlay was less than half that of the placebo group.

Dr. Reginster’s research provides evidence on the long-range effects of glucosamine. It suggests the supplement may not only relieve symptoms, but may help stall the progress of the disease. However, Dr. Reginster cautions more studies are needed. For osteoarthritis patients, this research may warrant a conversation with your physician.

Before taking any new dietary supplement, you should discuss it with your doctor. He or she can help you determine the safest and most effective ways to control your arthritis pain based on your specific condition.