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Chondroitin is a natural compound found in cartilage that can be taken as a supplement to promote healthy joints and alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis. While studies show it can relieve pain, there is no strong evidence that it rebuilds damaged cartilage. It is safe to take with other medications and has few adverse effects. Most chondroitin is made synthetically, but some is extracted from animals. The FDA has not yet evaluated or approved chondroitin.
Chondroitin, also known as chondroitin sulfate, is a naturally occurring compound found in cartilage. When taken as a supplement, it is purported to promote healthy joints by preventing the effects of damaging enzymes, increasing water retention, and improving the elastic properties of cartilage.
Proponents of taking chondroitin as a dietary supplement point to studies that have found it alleviates symptoms of osteoarthritis, a form of degenerative joint disease people commonly refer to as arthritis. Many of these studies indicate that taking the supplement is just as effective in treating arthritis pain as taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
People who take chondroitin to relieve osteoarthritis in the knees and hips may find that their pain has decreased and they can move more freely, but so far there is no strong evidence that taking it actually rebuilds damaged cartilage. Studies are currently underway to determine if the compound simply relieves the symptoms of arthritis or if it actually builds new cartilage. As of now, there is no empirical evidence to suggest that it is also effective for arthritis in the hands, fingers, or back.
Scientists who have studied chondroitin have found that up to 15% can be absorbed by the body when taken as a dietary supplement. The RDA for those taking supplements is 400-600mg three times a day. Many times, it is combined with glucosamine sulfate, another compound touted for its cartilage benefits, or with other essential vitamins that can support overall good health.
According to some study results, there are few adverse effects from taking chondroitin, and it is safe to take it along with pain relievers and other prescription arthritis medications. Mild stomach irritation has been reported in some cases. People hoping for joint relief need to be patient once they start a regimen; Results can take up to two months to be noticed.
Most of today’s chondroitin is made synthetically, but some is extracted from shark cartilage or cow tracheas. The synthetic form is recommended because dosage and safety can be more easily controlled.
The US Food and Drug Administration has not yet evaluated or approved chondroitin. Opponents of its use as a dietary supplement say it simply doesn’t work for up to 50% of the case study patients, and that the molecules are too large for the body to absorb.
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