Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 27 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 13 Reviews
8.3
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Glucosamine Sulfate(from 1,500 mg Glucosamine Potassium Sulfate Complex)
1.1 g (1,100 mg)
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
500 mg
Chondroitin Sodium Sulfate(from Bovine Cartilage)
50 mg

Top Medical Research Studies

We aimed to understand how N-acetyl glucosamine (GlcNAc), a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties, affects the development and severity of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Our investigation involved applying a special multivalent GlcNAc-terminated glycoconjugate and assessing its influence through various methodologies.

The results were promising. We observed that GlcNAc treatment significantly reduced inflammation at the site of arthritis, notably decreasing the presence of immune cells that contribute to the disease. Furthermore, it appeared to hinder the activation of other immune cells, which are often involved in the production of harmful pro-inflammatory molecules.

Additionally, GlcNAc treatment not only delayed the onset of arthritis symptoms but also eased the severity of these symptoms in many cases. We found that about 18% to 31% of participants treated with GlcNAc completely avoided any arthritis symptoms. Overall, our findings support a new approach to managing arthritis by focusing on the glycobiological aspects of treatment, presenting GlcNAc as a potential therapeutic option for those suffering from this debilitating condition.
Read More
9
Potential OA treatment advancements
We explored the potential of N-acetyl-(D)-glucosamine, a compound often used as a dietary supplement for osteoarthritis (OA), to provide effective relief from this chronic joint condition. Our research focused on a series of newly developed prodrugs, specifically targeting ways to enhance the compound's absorption and effectiveness within the body.

We found that some modified versions of N-acetyl-(D)-glucosamine, known as O-3 and O-4 phosphate prodrugs, demonstrated significant chondroprotective effects in vitro. In simple terms, this means they helped protect and support cartilage health, which is vital for those suffering from OA. Notably, the prodrugs that included a specific amino acid called (L)-proline were particularly effective, even outperforming earlier versions.

Overall, our findings suggest that these novel compounds hold promise as new leads in the search for more effective treatments for osteoarthritis. They signify a positive step toward improving the management of this painful and degenerative joint disease.
Read More
8
N-acetylglucosamine derivatives show promise
We focused our research on the potential of N-acetylglucosamine, a modified form of glucosamine, to impact osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint disease. Our investigations revealed that N-acetylglucosamine could enhance the oral bioavailability of glucosamine and is reported to have better in vitro chondroprotective effects compared to its parent compound.

To delve deeper into this, we examined N-acetylglucosamine derivatives modified specifically at the N position, using different chemical groups such as benzenesulfonyl and isoxazole. Among the many compounds we tested, we found that the derivatives with 3-(2-chlorobenzene)-5-methyl-isoxazole formyl chloride and p-methoxybenzenesulfonyl chloride were particularly effective at promoting chondrocyte health in our laboratory studies.

Our findings suggest that these newly developed compounds may hold promise as future treatments for osteoarthritis by enhancing joint health and potentially improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Essential supplement
8 people found this helpful
Can't be without! I have taken Now Glucosamine and MSM for years for arthritis in my hands. I tried several brands initially, but there's a significant difference between Now and the others. I’ve been pain-free with no flexibility issues in my hands and ensure I never run out of this supplement. The Amazon price is competitive.
Read More
9
Effective for arthritis
1 people found this helpful
Five Stars. This product really helps my arthritis.
Read More
9
Symptoms improved noted
Glucosamine effectively improves arthritis symptoms.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 27 Researches
7.3
  • All Researches
We aimed to understand how N-acetyl glucosamine (GlcNAc), a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties, affects the development and severity of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Our investigation involved applying a special multivalent GlcNAc-terminated glycoconjugate and assessing its influence through various methodologies.

The results were promising. We observed that GlcNAc treatment significantly reduced inflammation at the site of arthritis, notably decreasing the presence of immune cells that contribute to the disease. Furthermore, it appeared to hinder the activation of other immune cells, which are often involved in the production of harmful pro-inflammatory molecules.

Additionally, GlcNAc treatment not only delayed the onset of arthritis symptoms but also eased the severity of these symptoms in many cases. We found that about 18% to 31% of participants treated with GlcNAc completely avoided any arthritis symptoms. Overall, our findings support a new approach to managing arthritis by focusing on the glycobiological aspects of treatment, presenting GlcNAc as a potential therapeutic option for those suffering from this debilitating condition.
Read More
We investigated how partially acetylated chitooligosaccharides, specifically the oligomers of N-acetylglucosamine, might influence the growth of chondrocytes—the cells crucial for cartilage health—in people with osteoarthritis. The study focused on the binding of these sugars to YKL-40, a protein that is often associated with inflammation in joints.

Through careful processing of chitin, we derived two forms of chitooligosaccharides: Oligomin™ and T-ChOS™. Our results unveiled that larger versions of these oligosaccharides showed a strong attraction to YKL-40. More significantly, when we exposed osteoarthritic chondrocytes to these compounds, we noted a noteworthy increase in cell growth—up to three times more under certain conditions.

Interestingly, Oligomin™ required a higher concentration compared to T-ChOS™, which demonstrated that smaller oligosaccharides could be effective at lower doses. However, more isn't always better; excessively high concentrations led to reduced benefits. When we introduced chitotriose, a smaller oligosaccharide, it hampered the positive effects seen with the larger forms, suggesting a complex interplay in oligosaccharide behavior in relation to cellular responses.

Overall, these findings indicate a promising new direction in treating joint inflammation and give us hope for developing new therapies aimed at alleviating the discomfort of arthritis.
Read More
9
Potential OA treatment advancements
We explored the potential of N-acetyl-(D)-glucosamine, a compound often used as a dietary supplement for osteoarthritis (OA), to provide effective relief from this chronic joint condition. Our research focused on a series of newly developed prodrugs, specifically targeting ways to enhance the compound's absorption and effectiveness within the body.

We found that some modified versions of N-acetyl-(D)-glucosamine, known as O-3 and O-4 phosphate prodrugs, demonstrated significant chondroprotective effects in vitro. In simple terms, this means they helped protect and support cartilage health, which is vital for those suffering from OA. Notably, the prodrugs that included a specific amino acid called (L)-proline were particularly effective, even outperforming earlier versions.

Overall, our findings suggest that these novel compounds hold promise as new leads in the search for more effective treatments for osteoarthritis. They signify a positive step toward improving the management of this painful and degenerative joint disease.
Read More
We investigated how methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and a herbal extract called mobilee influence arthritis in human chondrocytes, the cells found in cartilage. By exposing these cells to interleukin (IL)-1β—a protein that can cause joint inflammation—we aimed to understand if these treatments could mitigate the damage commonly associated with osteoarthritis (OA).

We took chondrocytes from the femoral heads of patients undergoing hip replacement surgery and treated them with varying amounts of MSM and mobilee in the presence of IL-1β. Our tests measured cell survival and apoptosis—basically whether the cells lived or died—and assessed the levels of key proteins linked to cartilage breakdown and health.

Our results were encouraging. Both MSM and mobilee appeared to significantly reverse the negative effects brought on by IL-1β. Additionally, they managed to combat the activation of NF-κB, a pathway often implicated in inflammation and cell death. By reducing the levels of harmful enzymes and increasing beneficial proteins, these treatments seem to offer a potential new approach to improving joint health in arthritis patients.

In conclusion, this study suggests that MSM and mobilee could play a beneficial role in protecting cartilage cells from the inflammatory damage caused by IL-1β, providing a strong rationale for their consideration in arthritis treatment.
Read More
9
MSM improves knee OA treatment
We conducted a thoughtful investigation into how Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) impacts the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA) when paired with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. In our study, 147 patients diagnosed with Kellgren-Lawrence grade I-II knee OA were randomly divided into three groups. One group received a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, the second group received the same combination with MSM, and the third group was given a placebo.

The patients took their assigned capsules daily for three months, and we measured their pain and mobility before treatment and then at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after starting the regimen. The results revealed that the combination of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM offered noticeable clinical benefits for patients with knee OA. However, those taking only glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate experienced no significant improvement compared to the placebo group.

Our findings highlight the potential advantage of supplementing glucosamine and chondroitin with MSM for managing knee osteoarthritis. Nonetheless, the lack of improvement with glucosamine and chondroitin alone calls into question their effectiveness independently of MSM.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 13 Reviews
8.3
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Essential supplement
8 people found this helpful
Can't be without! I have taken Now Glucosamine and MSM for years for arthritis in my hands. I tried several brands initially, but there's a significant difference between Now and the others. I’ve been pain-free with no flexibility issues in my hands and ensure I never run out of this supplement. The Amazon price is competitive.
Read More
9
Effective for arthritis
1 people found this helpful
Five Stars. This product really helps my arthritis.
Read More
9
Symptoms improved noted
Glucosamine effectively improves arthritis symptoms.
Read More
9
Joint health protected
Very good! This product is excellent for maintaining joint health. My arthritis problems have improved substantially, and the packaging is also commendable, being quite large.
Read More
9
Absorption noted positively
My mother remarked that her arthritis has significantly improved, and she is pleased with the product's absorption after continuous use.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Absorption noted positively
My mother remarked that her arthritis has significantly improved, and she is pleased with the product's absorption after continuous use.
7.5
Notable improvement noted
1 people found this helpful
Very good! I purchased this for my mother (age 70) to help with her knee joints. The effect has been remarkable. Her knee pain and arthritis have significantly improved. I believe this is due to the glucosamine receptor's action. The price is reasonable, and one bottle lasts three months.
9
Joint health protected
Very good! This product is excellent for maintaining joint health. My arthritis problems have improved substantially, and the packaging is also commendable, being quite large.
9
Symptoms improved noted
Glucosamine effectively improves arthritis symptoms.
7.5
Reduction in inflammation achieved
High-quality vegetarian glucosamine can enhance arthritis symptoms after use. It is easily absorbed and suitable for all ages. The packaging is excellent, and the ingredients are safe. This supplement helps reduce inflammation in the body. I’ve noticed good improvements after using it, and the taste is acceptable.
7.5
Effective for symptoms
The quality is excellent, and the ingredients are safe. I bought it for my mother with joint pain to supplement glucosamine for symptom relief. The packaging is great and it supports bone and joint health effectively. My mother has experienced improvements with her arthritis, and it's easy to absorb.
8
Glucosamine and exercise enhance arthritis treatment
We sought to determine whether a combination of a nutrition supplement, including glucosamine and chondroitin, along with supervised exercise, is more effective for knee osteoarthritis than exercise alone.

In a six-month double-blinded trial involving 65 participants, those who took the supplement experienced significant improvements in pain and stiffness earlier compared to those receiving a placebo.

This suggests that using glucosamine chondroitin supplementation along with exercise could be a more efficient treatment strategy for arthritis in the knee.
We aimed to understand how N-acetyl glucosamine (GlcNAc), a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties, affects the development and severity of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Our investigation involved applying a special multivalent GlcNAc-terminated glycoconjugate and assessing its influence through various methodologies.

The results were promising. We observed that GlcNAc treatment significantly reduced inflammation at the site of arthritis, notably decreasing the presence of immune cells that contribute to the disease. Furthermore, it appeared to hinder the activation of other immune cells, which are often involved in the production of harmful pro-inflammatory molecules.

Additionally, GlcNAc treatment not only delayed the onset of arthritis symptoms but also eased the severity of these symptoms in many cases. We found that about 18% to 31% of participants treated with GlcNAc completely avoided any arthritis symptoms. Overall, our findings support a new approach to managing arthritis by focusing on the glycobiological aspects of treatment, presenting GlcNAc as a potential therapeutic option for those suffering from this debilitating condition.
8
N-acetyl glucosamine aids knee function
We explored the effectiveness of N-acetyl glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate on knee pain and function in middle-aged and older Japanese adults. Over 24 weeks, we randomly assigned participants to either receive a daily dose of these supplements or a placebo.

The study included 50 participants, who were assessed for knee pain using a visual analog scale and their self-reported knee function as measured by the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure. Our primary goal was to see how these supplements would affect knee pain and overall physical activity.

The results indicated that those taking the supplements experienced positive effects on their self-reported knee function and physical activity. This aligns with previous research conducted in Western countries, reinforcing the potential for these supplements to assist individuals dealing with arthritis-related knee issues.

Overall, our findings support the use of N-acetyl glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for enhancing knee function and activity levels among older adults suffering from pain or stiffness in the knees. However, it is important to note that the study did not isolate the effects of N-acetyl glucosamine alone, so its independent benefits require further investigation.
4
Glucosamine's dosage effects on arthritis
We explored how n-acetylglucosamine, a compound closely related to glucosamine, affects arthritis. Despite the mixed results in clinical trials concerning glucosamine, studies in rodent models show its potential to prevent joint destruction and reduce inflammation.

Our findings indicate that the effectiveness of glucosamine is significantly influenced by dosage. In particular, higher doses in animal studies appear to enhance its benefits on inflammatory conditions. Interestingly, the minimum effective dose of glucosamine we observed in studies achieves plasma levels similar to those produced when taking standard daily doses.

We noted that every clinical trial so far has utilized the same dose of 1.5 grams, a figure recommended decades ago. However, there has been no solid evidence supporting that this dose is the most effective. With varying patient populations and study designs, it's easy to see why some trials have reported null results.

We believe it is essential to investigate higher dosages and their effects on osteoarthritis rigorously. By doing so, we can provide clearer insights into the potential benefits of n-acetylglucosamine for individuals suffering from this debilitating condition.

References

  1. Liu W, Yu Y, Zhang Z, Li Z, Wu Y, et al. Nutrition supplementation combined with exercise versus exercise alone in treating knee osteoarthritis: a double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Age Ageing. 2025;54. 10.1093/ageing/afaf010
  2. Riegger J, Baumert J, Zaucke F, Brenner RE. The Hexosamine Biosynthetic Pathway as a Therapeutic Target after Cartilage Trauma: Modification of Chondrocyte Survival and Metabolism by Glucosamine Derivatives and PUGNAc in an Ex Vivo Model. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22. 10.3390/ijms22147247
  3. McCarty MF, O'Keefe JH, DiNicolantonio JJ. Glucosamine for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis: The Time Has Come for Higher-Dose Trials. J Diet Suppl. 2019;16:179. 10.1080/19390211.2018.1448920
  4. Kubomura D, Ueno T, Yamada M, Tomonaga A, Nagaoka I. Effect of N-acetylglucosamine administration on cartilage metabolism and safety in healthy subjects without symptoms of arthritis: A case report. Exp Ther Med. 2017;13:1614. 10.3892/etm.2017.4140
  5. Bolognesi G, Belcaro G, Feragalli B, Cornelli U, Cotellese R, et al. Movardol® (N-acetylglucosamine, Boswellia serrata, ginger) supplementation in the management of knee osteoarthritis: preliminary results from a 6-month registry study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2016;20:5198.
  6. Cao T, Li Y, Jiang L, Yuan L, Dong L, et al. Novel biologically active series of N-acetylglucosamine derivatives for the suppressive activities on GAG release. Carbohydr Res. 2016;433:73. 10.1016/j.carres.2016.07.004
  7. Şükür E, Talu C, Akman YE, Çirci E, Öztürkmen Y, et al. Comparison of the chondroprotective effect of a novel hydrogel compound and traditional hyaluronate on rat cartilage in a papain-induced osteoarthritis model. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc. 2016;50:458. 10.1016/j.aott.2016.07.008
  8. Kim HB, Lee SW, Mun CH, Yoon JY, Pai J, et al. O-linked N-acetylglucosamine glycosylation of p65 aggravated the inflammation in both fibroblast-like synoviocytes stimulated by tumor necrosis factor-α and mice with collagen induced arthritis. Arthritis Res Ther. 2015;17:248. 10.1186/s13075-015-0762-7
  9. Tsuji T, Yoon J, Kitano N, Okura T, Tanaka K. Effects of N-acetyl glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplementation on knee pain and self-reported knee function in middle-aged and older Japanese adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Aging Clin Exp Res. 2016;28:197. 10.1007/s40520-015-0412-6
  10. Richter J, Capková K, Hříbalová V, Vannucci L, Danyi I, et al. Collagen-induced arthritis: severity and immune response attenuation using multivalent N-acetyl glucosamine. Clin Exp Immunol. 2014;177:121. 10.1111/cei.12313
  11. Frisbie DD, McIlwraith CW, Kawcak CE, Werpy NM. Evaluation of intra-articular hyaluronan, sodium chondroitin sulfate and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine combination versus saline (0.9% NaCl) for osteoarthritis using an equine model. Vet J. 2013;197:824. 10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.05.033
  12. Coburn JM, Wo L, Bernstein N, Bhattacharya R, Aich U, et al. Short-chain fatty acid-modified hexosamine for tissue-engineering osteoarthritic cartilage. Tissue Eng Part A. 2013;19:2035. 10.1089/ten.TEA.2012.0317
  13. Einarsson JM, Bahrke S, Sigurdsson BT, Ng CH, Petersen PH, et al. Partially acetylated chitooligosaccharides bind to YKL-40 and stimulate growth of human osteoarthritic chondrocytes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2013;434:298. 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.02.122
  14. Serpi M, Bibbo R, Rat S, Roberts H, Hughes C, et al. Novel phosphoramidate prodrugs of N-acetyl-(D)-glucosamine with antidegenerative activity on bovine and human cartilage explants. J Med Chem. 2012;55:4629. 10.1021/jm300074y
  15. Akpınar K, Şimşek EK, Özen ÖI, Haberal B. The effect of MSM in the treatment of ankle arthrosis: Is MSM as effective as methylprednisolone or hyaluronic acid?. J Orthop Res. 2024;42:1527. 10.1002/jor.25795
  16. Toguchi A, Noguchi N, Kanno T, Yamada A. Methylsulfonylmethane Improves Knee Quality of Life in Participants with Mild Knee Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023;15. 10.3390/nu15132995
  17. Qin DE, Liang W, Yu Y, Whelan EC, Yuan X, et al. Modified Simiaowan prevents and treats gouty arthritis via the Nrf2/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway. J Ethnopharmacol. 2024;318:116906. 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116906
  18. Cheleschi S, Fioravanti A, De Palma A, Corallo C, Franci D, et al. Methylsulfonylmethane and mobilee prevent negative effect of IL-1β in human chondrocyte cultures via NF-κB signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol. 2018;65:129. 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.10.004
  19. Lubis AMT, Siagian C, Wonggokusuma E, Marsetyo AF, Setyohadi B. Comparison of Glucosamine-Chondroitin Sulfate with and without Methylsulfonylmethane in Grade I-II Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. Acta Med Indones. 2017;49:105.
  20. Notarnicola A, Maccagnano G, Moretti L, Pesce V, Tafuri S, et al. Methylsulfonylmethane and boswellic acids versus glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of knee arthritis: Randomized trial. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2016;29:140. 10.1177/0394632015622215
  21. Panuccio E, Memeo A, Richetta S. [Evaluation of the combined treatment of oral viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid intra-articular injection on symptomatic knee osteoarthritis]. Clin Ter. 2015;166:e321. 10.7417/T.2015.1886
  22. Alekseeva LI, Sharapova EP, Kashevarova NG, Taskina EA, Anikin SG, et al. [Use of ARTRA MSM FORTE in patients with knee osteoarthritis: Results of a randomized open-label comparative study of the efficacy and tolerability of the drug]. Ter Arkh. 2015;87:49. 10.17116/terarkh2015871249-54
  23. Ezaki J, Hashimoto M, Hosokawa Y, Ishimi Y. Assessment of safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane on bone and knee joints in osteoarthritis animal model. J Bone Miner Metab. 2013;31:16. 10.1007/s00774-012-0378-9
  24. Notarnicola A, Tafuri S, Fusaro L, Moretti L, Pesce V, et al. The "MESACA" study: methylsulfonylmethane and boswellic acids in the treatment of gonarthrosis. Adv Ther. 2011;28:894. 10.1007/s12325-011-0068-3
  25. Debbi EM, Agar G, Fichman G, Ziv YB, Kardosh R, et al. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled study. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011;11:50. 10.1186/1472-6882-11-50
  26. Brien S, Prescott P, Bashir N, Lewith H, Lewith G. Systematic review of the nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2008;16:1277. 10.1016/j.joca.2008.03.002
  27. Kim LS, Axelrod LJ, Howard P, Buratovich N, Waters RF. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2006;14:286.
image