Glucosamine and chondroitin side effects

Introduction

Glucosamine and chondroitin are medicaments which are commonly used for the treatment of arthritis. Those who suffer from arthritis usually suffer from damaged cartilage which covers the ends of the bones, prevents the friction of the bones and allows free movement of the joints. Arthritis includes an improper movement of the joints and bones, so glucosamine and chondroitin are used to provide their proper functioning. They relieve the painful sensations and inflammatory conditions. These medications can be purchased in the form of liquid, tablets or capsules.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Side Effects

Glucosamine and chondroitin may be very efficient in relieving the symptoms of arthritis, but they also can be associated with various different sorts of side effects as well. The most common side effects of glucosamine and chondroitin include indigestion, soft stools, constipation, upset stomach, diarrhea, heartburn and other types of gastrointestinal problems. Those who suffer from diabetes and those who suffer from shellfish allergies should be very careful before taking glucosamine chondroitin because they may lead to certain medical conditions such as increased insulin levels, difficulty in breathing, skin rash, swollen lips and itching. The side effects of glucosamine alone may include drowsiness, diarrhea and headaches. On the other hand, the separate use of chondroitin may be associated with certain side effects as well and those commonly include hair loss, swollen eyelids, swollen ankles and heart palpitations. These medications must be taken with utmost precaution. One should always use them as prescribed medicines because they may interact with certain other types of medications such as acetaminophen, teniposide and several different sorts of diabetic medications. Interactions with chemotherapy drugs usually include internal bleeding which is a very serious medical condition.

The most common side effects are mild and they may or may not include an upset stomach, softened stools, abdominal pain, diarrhea, appetite loss, constipation, vomiting, gas, nausea and abdominal flatulence. Glucosamine and chondroitin may also be affiliated with certain other problems and they may even affect the sleep patterns of a person. Certain reversible symptoms of the usage of glucosamine and chondroitin may include insomnia and drowsiness in some cases. The aforementioned shellfish allergies may also be a big issue when it comes to the usage of glucosamine and chondroitin. Those who suffer from these types of allergies should definitely try to steer clear of these medications. These medications may also be associated with improper functioning of kidneys in some cases.