Recent Research Supports Use of Glucosamine Supplements in Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Recent media report postulate that glucosamine supplements may not be as effective as perceived, despite the facts that thousands of Australians with joint pain have experienced positive benefits with glucosamine supplementation.
In this month's Choice Magazine, it states "plenty of people who suffer from osteoarthritis think it’s working for them, so it’s still worth giving glucosamine and chondroitin a try”.
The Complementary Healthcare Council (CHC) of Australia welcomes this verdict for joint supplement usage. Executive Director of CHC, Dr. Wendy Morrow further commented that “Research also indicates that it is helpful in rebuilding damaged cartilage. Hence its use extends beyond mere pain relief which is a very subjective thing to measure.”
According to AIHW, it is estimated that the indirect financial cost of osteoarthritis in 2007 was more than $7 billion, and that population growth and inflation would have increased direct health expenditure on osteoarthritis to $2.3 billion in 2007 (Access Economics 2007).
Earlier study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that “…glucosamine sulfate was found to be cost effective at less than $5000/QALY (Quality Adjusted Life Year). ... These supplements had equivalent efficacy to NSAIDs, with no evidence of excess morbidity or mortality".
Latest research published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage also showed evidence that treatment of knee osteoarthritis with glucosamine sulphate for at least 12 months and up to 3 years may prevent total joint replacement. This 5 years follow-up study showed a 57% decreased incidence of total knee replacements in patients who had received glucosamine sulphate compared with placebo.
References:
1. AIHW, Health expenditure for arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions in Australia, 2001.
2. Segal L, et al, Can we reduce disease burden from osteoarthritis? An evidence-based priority-setting model. Med J Aust 2004; 180 (5 Suppl): S11-S17.
3. Bruyere O et al, Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2008 Feb;16(2):254-60
Product Profile USANA Procosamine® II
USANA Procosamine® II provides high-potency glucosmain sulfate at 2000mg per daily dosage. In addition, Procosamine II also provides turmeric extract, Vitamin C, and manganese - all powerful ingredients that work together to help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis.
While some products contain significantly less glucosamine than their label claims (as reported by Choice Magazine May2008), USANA Procosamine II has been rigorously tested to meet all specification and USANA's high standards. The Potency Guaranteed stamp on every bottle shows USANA's commitment to provide high quality supplements and our guarantee that what is on the label is what is inside the bottle. Feel the difference with the advanced USANA Procosamine II joint formula for the support and maintenance of healthy cartilage and joints. Derived from seafood. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If Symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.