other2 of 2 uses with evidence behind themWhich glucosamine? Compare all forms →

Glucosamine Sulfate

The form used in the long-running European trials, most of which were run by the company selling it.

What it’s good for

Glucosamine Sulfate for Joint Pain

Mixed

5 studies · 3 supporting · 2 against

Supplies a building block of cartilage, though whether enough of it reaches a joint to matter is unresolved.

Dose: 1500 mg

Tested as: crystalline glucosamine sulfate 1500 mg once daily — in the positive trials, specifically the Rotta preparation

Glucosamine Sulfate for Back Pain

No Benefit

2 studies · 0 supporting · 2 against

How it was tested: Six months of glucosamine made no difference to disability from chronic low back pain compared with placebo.

Proposed to act on degenerative change in the spine, as it is proposed to in other joints.

Dose: 1500 mg

Tested as: glucosamine sulfate 1500 mg daily for six months in chronic low back pain

Other forms of Glucosamine

Glucosamine HCl

The form used in the largest independent trial, where it did not beat placebo.

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