Role of Glucosamine Sulphate, Chrondoitin Sulphate & Vitamin C in Enhancing Chrondoprotective Effects and Management of Pain in Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease involving the cartilage and many of its surrounding tissues. The risk of disability is so great that it is now a costly burden to society and loss of productivity. So, the objectives in managing the patient with OA are to reduce/eliminate pain & stiffness, maintain/improve mobility, optimize function & hence minimize disability. Currently, there is no cure to osteoarthritis. Available treatment options are only aimed at alleviating pain and improving functionality of joints. NSAIDs are recommended as second line treatment (after acetaminophen) for mild OA and as first-line treatment for moderate to severe OA. However, due to the potentially serious adverse reactions of NSAIDs, they are not suitable for long term use. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that the targeted administration of selected micronutrients leads to a more effective reduction of OA symptoms, with less adverse events. Consistent with the in vitro and in vivo studies done on glucosamine and chrondoitin sulphate, some clinical trials thus far reported support the demonstrated favorable effects of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate alone or in combination in relieving OA pain. However, none of a larger number of randomized clinical trials gave such positive results, suggesting an ambiguity of the benefit of these two nutraceuticals in OA. The study has been conducted in 3 groups of 20 patients in order to evaluate and compare improved treatment outcomes combining Paracetamol, Gucosamine hydrochloride, Chrondoitin sulfate & Vitamin C. Superior effects of combination treatment considering paracetamol, glucosamine sulphate, chrondoitin sulphate and vitamin C over glucosamine sulphate, chrondoitin sulphate and paracetamol were seen during the study suggesting the combination of vitamin C with Glucosmine sulphate and chrondoitin sulphate may play a vital role in alleviation of pain in knee OA patients. Since the other treatment options carry a considerable risk of side effects over long term use, this treatment combination maybe a very valuable and safe method of ensuring long term treatment of knee OA with negligible side effects.