Glucosamine Does Not Relieve Hip Osteoarthritis

Glucosamine has delivered mixed results in clinical trials for arthritis. A study published in the February 19, 2008 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine is the first to look at the effect of glucosamine sulfate on hip osteoarthritis.

In the study, 222 people from the Netherlands who had mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the hip were treated for 2 years -- half of the study participants took 1500 mg glucosamine daily and the other half took a placebo. Level of pain and function (the ability to perform usual activities) was assessed when the study began and every 3 months thereafter for the two-year period. X-rays of the hip were taken at the study onset and conclusion to detect any improvement due to glucosamine. The x-rays measured joint space narrowing. As osteoarthritis worsens, joint space becomes more narrow.

Researchers concluded that there was no evidence of improvement on x-rays and no evidence that glucosamine had any effect on pain and function. In a small subgroup of people with more severe arthritis, there again was no evidence of benefit from glucosamine. Critics of the study suggest there was no room for improvement since study participants had very mild pain to begin with. Patients who wish to try glucosamine should discuss the treatment option with their doctor.

Related Resources:

• Glucosamine: 10 Things You Should Know
• Hip Osteoarthritis: What You Need to Know
• Hip Osteoarthritis - Test Your Knowledge
• Hip Replacement Improves Quality of Life
• Dietary Supplements: An Alternative Treatment for Osteoarthritis

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