TREATMENT DATABASE

Glucosamine sulfate is a mucopolysaccharide made up of the sugar glucose and the amino acid glutamine. It is the synthetic form of glucosamine, a naturally occurring amino acid compound found in the joints.

Glucosamine sulfate has been used for many years in Europe, Asia, and the Philippines to treat osteoarthritis. It appears to stimulate the synthesis of connective tissue and cartilage by aiding in the production of glucosaminoglycans and proteoglycans, the key building blocks of cartilage. Because glucosamine is also one of the main components of the synovial fluids that cushion joints and surrounding tissues, it has been used to treat degenerative joint diseases. It also may have anti-inflammatory properties, thereby lessening the need for anti-inflammatory pain medications.

USES IN ME/CFS. It is difficult to determine how useful glucosamine may be for people with ME/CFS. Its mode of action indicates that, in theory, it may be of benefit to patients with joint pain, fibromyalgia, or interstitial cystitis.

Treatment rating for Glucosamine Sulfate