Based on human research, there is good evidence to support the use of glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis.
Most studies have used glucosamine sulfate supplied by one European manufacturer (Rotta Research Laboratorium), and it is not known if glucosamine preparations made by other manufacturers are equally effective.
Results of a recent large clinical trial (GAIT) comparing the effects of glucosamine to celecoxib (Celebrex?) for treatment of knee osteoarthritis have yet to be published.
A recent study or postmenopausal women found that glucosamine reduced joint space narrowing compared to placebo treatment.
Although some studies of glucosamine have not found benefits, these have either included patients with severe osteoarthritis, or used products other than glucosamine sulfate .
The evidence for the effect of glycosaminoglycan polysulphate is conflicting and merits further investigation.
More well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm safety and effectiveness, and to test different formulations of glucosamine.