Are there side effects to taking Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements?

The Arthritis Association cautions the use of glucosamine sulfate during pregnancy or lactation and for use in children. Glucosamine has not been studied long enough to determine it's effects on a child or on a developing fetus. There has been some concern that Glucosamine may also elevate blood glucose in diabetics. Diabetics wishing to take glucosamine should monitor their blood glucose levels closely during the first 3 months of taking glucosamine and report any increases in their glucose values to their doctors.

There are very few reported side effects, but the most common ones are increased intestinal gas and softened stools. If you experience any of these problems, you might want to try another brand of pills before you stop using them altogether. This is because these effects can be caused by the type of coating around the pill rather that the glucosamine inside it.

More studies are being done to confirm(or not) the safety and effectiveness of the supplements. But, be sure to contact your doctor if you notice any unusual or new symptoms while you are taking them.

If you are taking chondroitin sulfate in addition to a blood-thinning medication or daily aspirin therapy, have your blood clotting time checked more often. This supplement is similar in structure to the blood-thinning drug heparin, and the combination may cause bleeding in some people.

If you are allergic to shellfish you should consult your doctor before taking glucosamine. But in most cases allergies are caused by proteins in shellfish, not the chitin from which glucosamine is extracted. (or try the newer corn based supplements.)