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Over 9 million people have arthritis in the UK. Paracetamol is often recommended as a first-line treatment as it effectively reduces mild to moderate pain. It does not however have an anti-inflammatory action. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are therefore prescribed when both pain-relief and an anti-inflammatory action are needed, but their use is reported to be limited by their potential for side effects. The desire for an alternative to NSAIDs means that glucosamine is now one of the most popular food supplements in the UK.
NSAIDs
Glucosamine
Are artificial synthetic drugs.
Occurs naturally in the body but is often in short supply.
Offer symptomatic relief from the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
Addresses the underlying causes, helping improve the quality of joint fluids.
Has no effect on joint space.
Slows progression of joint space narrowing for a beneficial modifying action.
Improve pain quickly, from the first dose. In higher doses, produces and anti-inflammatory response within 1 or 2 weeks.
Produces similar improvements to pain and inflammation as NSAIDs, but with a slower onset of action (2 to 4 weeks).
Stops working soon after treatment is discontinued.
Benefits remain for at least 8 weeks after treatment is discontinued, due to modifying action.
Are suitable for people with a shellfish allergy.
Glucosamine derived from crustacean shells is not suitable for people with a shellfish allergy; non-shellfish derived products such as Optiflex glucosamine HCl are available.
NSAIDs are responsible for many hospital admissions each year to treat serious side effects.
Is tolerated as well as inactive placebo. Can increase intestinal gas production.
For the majority of people, glucosamine is a preferred choice for treating arthritis symptoms than NSAIDs.
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Sarah Brewer graduated as a doctor from Cambridge University. Having worked in hospitals and general practice, she gained a Masters degree in Nutritional Medicine from the University of Surrey. She is the author of over 50 popular health books and writes widely on all aspects of health including complementary medicine.
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