The use of glucosamine therapy in osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine products have been used extensively for the management of pain in osteoarthritis. This paper reviews the most recent clinical and experimental studies regarding its efficacy and safety. Although clinical trials include methodologic flaws and publication bias, glucosamine is likely an effective therapy for the symptomatic management of osteoarthritis. In turn, definite proof for chondromodulating effect requires well-conducted clinical trials. In North America, glucosamine is an over-the-counter dietary supplement and preparations made by different manufacturers may vary. There is also a need to standardize this therapy and allow practitioners to give patients suitable advice. An ongoing long-term clinical trial in the US will possibly permit to investigate the clinical relevance of these results and give appropriate recommendations.