Effects of glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate supplementation on serum fructosamine concentration in healthy dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether short-term administration of an oral glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate (Glu-CS) supplement alters serum fructosamine concentration in healthy dogs.

DESIGN

Prospective crossover study.

ANIMALS

12 healthy adult dogs.

PROCEDURES

Dogs received Glu-CS and a placebo for 3 weeks each, with a 4-week minimum washout period between treatments. Serum fructosamine concentration was measured 4 times for each dog: prior to the first treatment period, at the end of the first treatment period, at the end of the washout period, and at the end of the second treatment period.

RESULTS

No significant change in serum fructosamine concentration was identified after treatment with either Glu-CS or the placebo. The change in serum fructosamine concentration associated with Glu-CS administration was not significantly different from the change in concentration associated with administration of the placebo.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results suggest that in healthy dogs, short-term (ie, 21 days) oral Glu-CS administration does not affect glycemic control or cause diabetes mellitus.