Glycosamine

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 Glucosamine? Glycosamine is a common misspelling of glucosamine.
 
Glucosamine is an amino sugar naturally found in the human body. It is also available in the form of a dietary supplement and can be derived from the shells of crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. The supplement is believed to be effective for the treatment of arthritis by reducing inflammation and decreasing the production of the compounds that degrade cartilage. Glucosamine is probably safe for many people when used appropriately, but you should talk to your healthcare provider before taking it if you have asthma or diabetes.
 
(Click Glucosamine to find out more about how glucosamine works, for a list of potential side effects, and for information on what to be aware of before taking it. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD