Drugs with glucosamine and chondroitin help restore cartilage and strengthen connective tissue. Means increase the production of intraarticular fluid, reduce muscle fatigue.
Food supplement "Glucosamine + Chondroitin". Mechanism of action
Glucosamine is found in the vascular walls, skin, bronchi, and mucous membranes. Its molecule is absorbed in the digestive tract, from where it enters the cartilage and other tissues. There, glucosamine is synthesized to form the necessary components, including chondroitin sulfate. The latter inhibits the activity of proteolytic enzymes that contribute to the destruction of cartilage, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, reduces pain in the spine and joints at rest and in motion.
The food supplement is highly bioavailable. Due to this, the drug is well absorbed even in the presence of disturbances in the digestive system.
Component Properties
The main building material in the formation of connective tissue is glucosamine. This component takes part in the formation of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage joints. With systematic administration, glucosamine slows down the development of pathological processes in the joints, soft tissues and spine of a degenerative nature. Chondroitin sulfate provides stimulation of the synthesis of hyaluronic acid. The component strengthens the structure of connective tissue. The substance belongs to the category of chondroprotectors that enhance regeneration and increase the amortization characteristics of cartilage.
This high molecular weight polysaccharide is included in the category of glycosaminoglycans, has a tropism for
cartilage tissue. The component starts the process of sulfur fixation during synthesis. This, in turn, contributes to the accumulation of calcium in the bones. With regular production of chondroitin sulfate, it is significantly reduced, and in some cases the need for NSAIDs is completely eliminated. Due to this, in patients suffering from articular pathologies for many years, the quality of life noticeably improves. Among the main characteristics of the component, experts note its ability to retain moisture in cartilage in the form of microspaces - water pillows. Due to this, good cushioning is ensured, shock is absorbed, and the structure strength of the connective tissue is increased. Along with other useful properties, experts note the absolute safety of the substance.
Indications for use
The tool "Glucosamine + Chondroitin" (available at the pharmacy with a prescription) is recommended for pathologies of the spine and joints of a degenerative-dystrophic nature. In particular, arthropathy, osteoarthrosis, osteochondrosis (intervertebral), spondylosis are referred to indications.
A food supplement is prescribed for fractures, sprains, damage to ligaments and cartilage tissues. Recommended agent "Glucosamine + Chondroitin" for sports and domestic injuries.
Dosage regimen
The drug is prescribed to patients from the age of fifteen. It is recommended to take capsules thirty to forty minutes before a meal. The recommended dose of glucosamine + chondroitin is twice a day, 1 pc. during the first three weeks. Subsequently, the frequency of admission is halved - on a capsule once a day.
The duration of use according to this scheme is five or six months, depending on the severity of the manifestations of the pathology. The minimum duration of the course is 2 months. A persistent therapeutic effect is observed when taking a food supplement for six months.
Side effects
As practice shows, negative consequences occur when the recommended dose or frequency is exceeded. In general, the supplement is tolerated (subject to all requirements) well by patients of different ages. Based on the intake, it is likely that digestive system disorders will develop. In particular, flatulence, nausea, constipation or diarrhea, soreness in the epigastrium, and vomiting may occur. Side effects include allergic reactions that occur, as a rule, on the skin in the form of rashes, redness or irritation and burning. If any other side effects not described by the annotation appear, you should immediately visit a doctor, stopping the drug.
Contraindications
Do not prescribe the additive "Glucosamine + Chondroitin" for individual intolerance to the components, impaired renal function of the pronounced course. Contraindications include pregnancy, phenylketonuria, predisposition to bleeding.
Not prescribed for lactating patients, children under the age of fifteen.
Interaction with other medicines
When using any medicine, the patient should notify the doctor prescribing the chondroprotector. In the case of self-medication, you should consult with a specialist regarding the possibility of taking a dietary supplement, adjusting (if necessary) the dosage or regimen. The drug “Glucosamine + Chondroitin” increases the absorption of tetracyclines, reduces the absorption of the drug “Levomycetin” and semi-synthetic penicillins from the digestive system. The simultaneous use of a dietary supplement with NSAIDs, as well as glucocorticosteroids, is allowed. However, experts note a significant decrease in the need for anti-inflammatory drugs of the non-steroid group.
additional information
Before taking a dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. It is highly recommended not to prescribe a drug for yourself. To prevent the likelihood of developing unwanted effects, the dosage schedule prescribed by the doctor should be strictly observed. If it is necessary to carry out therapy during lactation, the patient must be warned about the possible cessation of feeding. During the entire treatment course, it is recommended to limit the use of fluids, sugar. Reception of alcohol-containing products is prohibited.