Glucosamine: One of the most Popular Supplements
July 6th, 2009 | 
Glucosamine (C6H13NO5) is a naturally occurring compound in the human body that is made from glucose and the amino acid, glutamine. It is considered to be one of the top-most and popular supplements in the market today and is the first-choice of worldwide bodybuilders and professional athletes.
Glucosamine plays a critical role in cartilage health and resiliency. As it is usually derived from shellfish, it does not bring any side-effects with it. However, people who are allergic to shellfish must avoid it. It has a molecular mass of 179.17 g/mol and melting point of 150 °C.
Benefits of Glucosamine
The oral form of glucosamine is used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, arthritis, and rebuilding of cartilage. In addition to that, it is also considered to be beneficial when it comes to repairing joints that have been damaged from osteoarthritis.
Furthermore, Glucosamine is also used in treating ailment such as skin rejuvenation, depression, AIDS, cancer, congestive heart failure, spondylosis deformations, ankylosing spondylitis, and bleeding esophageal varices.
Action Mechanism
Glucosamine initiates an anti-inflammatory activity in the body of an osteoarthritis patient. Such an activity facilitates stimulation of proteoglycans synthesis and inhibition of synthesis of proteolytic enzymes.
Availability
Glucosamine is available in three forms, namely, Glucosamine HCl, Glucosamine sulfate sodium, and Glucosamine sulfate potassium. It is contraindicated for pregnant, pregnancy-suspecting, and nursing women. Moreover, it is not indicated to be used by any one who has an existing allergy for shellfish or any of Glucosamine’s components. Patients suffering from diabetes must get their blood sugar level checked at regular intervals while making a use of Glucosamine.
Recommended Dosage of Glucosamine
The recommended dosage of Glucosamine for an average adult is 1500 mg per day.
Side-Effects of Glucosamine
Some possible side-effects of Glucosamine include drowsiness, nausea, heartburn, constipation, palpitation, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Overdosage
In case of an overdosage of Glucosamine, the concerned individual must immediately seek qualified medical intervention.
In case a dose is missed, one can take it as soon as this fact is realized. However, if the time of next dosage is near, it is highly advisable to skip the missed dosage as an overdosage may prove to be lethal.
Administration
Oral Glucosamine should be taken as per the instructions on the box or bottle. If the information is missing or incomplete or ambiguous, please feel free to consult a doctor or pharmacist before usage. If you experience any abnormality with your body, do not waste any time to rush to an emergency room and discontinue the usage of Glucosamine on an immediate basis.
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