Chondroitin Sulfate (CDS, condroitin, GAG, galactosaminoglucuronoglycan)
Classes: Analgesics, Herbals; Cardiovascular, Herbals
Suggested dosing of CDS, condroitin (chondroitin sulfate)
Osteoarthritis
200-400 mg PO BID-TID, Or
1000-1200 mg PO qd
Also used in combo with glucosamine
MI, recurrent prophylaxis
Initial: 10 g PO div TID x 3 months THEn
Maintenance: 500 mg PO TId
Suggested uses of CDS, condroitin (chondroitin sulfate)
Osteoarthritis, hyperlipidemia, ischemic heart disease, osteoporosis
Efficacy
A compilation of the studies indicates patients with OA of the knee can experience some benefit from taking chondroitin; however, pain relief is likely to be modest or possibly insignificant.
MI: Some preliminary evidence indicates a possible lower risk of MI or recurrent risk of MI. More studies are needed
CDS, condroitin (chondroitin sulfate) adverse (side) effects
Allergic reactions, alopecia, constipation, diarrhea, edema, (eyelid/lower limb), epigastric pain, extrasystoles, nausea
Warnings
Contraindications
Anticoagulated (IM use), clotting disorders (IM use)
Cautions
Asthma
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: avoid use
Lactation: avoid use
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of CDS, condroitin (chondroitin sulfate)
Metabolism: N/A
Excretion: N/A
Mechanism of action
Cartilage derivative; component of hyaline cartilage matrix that may repair cartilage & reduce synovial inflammation
