What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is an amino sugar that the body makes itself, with the chemical formula C6H13NO5 which is a synthesis of protein and lipid glycosylate, it is very important in the construction of articular cartilage. Glucosamine exists as a monosaccharide: glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride.

The effects of glucosamine

Glucosamine medication is used to promote joint and cartilage growth. Glucosamine may also have other uses. You should check with your pharmacist for details about the different brands of medications.

Glucosamine is a cellulose-like compound used by the body to create cartilage. Glucosamine is thought to act by stimulating cartilage production, thereby causing joints to recover. Glucosamine also protects cartilage and prevents cartilage from breaking down.

Some other effects of the drug are not listed on the approved drug label, but your doctor may recommend that you take them. You only use this medicine to treat a number of other conditions when directed by your doctor.

Glucosamine medicine can stop arthritis pain quickly.

Preserving glucosamine medicine

You should store at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Do not store in the bathroom or in the freezer. You should remember that each drug may have different storage methods. Therefore, you should carefully read the storage instructions on the package or ask a pharmacist. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

You should not throw medication into the toilet or plumbing unless required. Instead, dispose of properly when the medicine is out of date or cannot be used.

Types of glucosamine drugs

Glucosamine pills come in the following forms and amounts:

• Tablets 250mg;
• Powder or oral solution 1.5g;
• Solution for injection 400mg / 3m.

Dosage

Dosage for adults

Usual adult dose for people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis: 500mg 3-4 times daily. Maximum dose: 1500 mg / day.

Dosage for children

Dosage for children has not been studied and decided. Consult your doctor if you plan to give this medication to a child.

How to use

You should use the medication as directed by your doctor and check the information on the label for exact medication instructions. In particular, you do not use the drug at low doses, higher or longer than the indicated time.

If you have any questions while using the medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects

Side effects when using the drug include:

• Constipation;
• Diarrhea;
• Sleepy;
• Headache;
• Heartburn;
• Nausea;
• Stomach pain.

This is not a complete list of all side effects and other side effects may occur. If you have any questions about side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Cases of overdose and forgotten doses

In case of emergency or overdose, call 911 immediately or go to the nearest local health station. Also, make a note of and take a list of all the medicines you have taken, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take twice the prescribed dose.

Drug interactions

It may change the way other drugs work, or increase the effects of side effects. To avoid drug interactions, it's best to write down a list of all the drugs you're taking (including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and dietary supplements) and show them to your doctor or pharmacist. To ensure safety when using the drug, you do not arbitrarily take, stop or change the dosage of the drug without a doctor's permission.

Medications that may interact with glucosamine include: heart medications, insulin, blood thinners and diuretics.

Food, alcohol, and tobacco may interact with certain drugs.

Your medical condition may affect the use of this medicine

Note when using the drug

Before taking the medication, you should tell your doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding. You need to take medication as directed by your doctor in this case;
• You are allergic to any of the ingredients of the medication;
• You are taking other medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal and dietary supplements);
• You plan to use medication for children or the elderly;
• You have or have ever had a medical condition.

There are still not enough studies to determine the risk of using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Before taking medication, always consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.