Glucosamine and Chondroitin (Sp?)

Hey,

A dr. friend of mine suggested that I try the Gl. and Chon. for my RA.  I was wondering if any of you have used it, and how it has worked.

Thanks,

Kati

I haven't used it for a while (since I got my hips replaced) but I hear a lot of people tell me it works! 

I meant to add that you might want to try glucosamine by itself first, as it's cheaper than the g/c combination.

Hi! I haven't tried it because I asked my rheumy once and he told me that there were studies out that had actually proven that they don't work (then I looked it up, and its true, there are huge studies on it), and that its a waste of money. Since I'm not exactly rolling in cash, and its expensive, and apparently it doesn't work, I decided to skip it!

I am with Kate, I asked a pharmacist who said it was a cash cow (for the manufacturers) and unproven - however - if you have the money and you think it works go ahead and try it.  My parents were using it but I don't know if they still do.  I'll try and remember to ask them next time I see them.

There was an article on these studies and the findins on the AF newsletter last month.  I haven't used it in a long time didn't see any benefits from it and with the cost of it decided not to bother.

I was just telling my wife I'd like to try the infomercial Juice drink "Supple" containing Glucosamine and Chondroitin. It's an expensive deal about $60 for 24 days. I was very sceptical and now even more so. It's sinful that these people prey on the sick to fatten up their bank accounts. Pain is a horrible thing and I pray that all of you find a remedy that really works. Then please let me know!

Michael

Michael,

It does seem to help some folks depending on the severity of their joint issues and the types of arthritis they have, per the article from AF. 

I know it doesn't seem to help me much with my RA, though have a friend with RA that swears by it.  My husband uses it for his knees which he is plagued with OA and he notices a difference if he doesn't take it.

The suppliments that are out there work for some folks and not others.  I look at it this way, why not try it if it helps great, if it doesn't atleast I can say I tried it and move to the next one.

It's like diet's some folks lose weigth on one diet but not another. Everyone of us is different and our inter chemical and body reactions are different for weight loss, supplimental medications, even perscription medications. 

Do your research before you make your final decision to help clear up the sceptisizum before you spend a lot of money. Instead of Supple try the product sold right on the home page here from DONA, you get the discount if you are a member. If it works then try the Supple. If it doesn't then you know that your body hasn't accepted it as a suppliment to assist you.

THe decision is yours, we are not medical professionals, so talk to your Rheumy ask what he/she recommends you do, bring a few articles with you to help make the joint decision with your doc. 

Good Luck in what ever you do!

Tess

What I read is that they've only proven it helps OA in the knees, so Tess that would explain your husband!  Good for him!

I've been told to take it forever, I would here and there, and there was never a benefit, so I stopped taking it.  Oddly enough - my current rheumy who is a research doc, never tried to put me on it (and I highly revere this guy!).  So all and all, my studies indicate it does not help Psoriatic Arthritis...lol!  I think we are some of our own best lab rats!

Britt,

I don't think we are Lab Rats!  I would think we are the Lab Bunnies!!  So step aside Huge H. Here we come the Lab Bunnies!!!

Tess, The crazy woman!

Can I be a little spotted brown one?  Hop hop....  

Thanks for the cuter perspective Tess, I've been a little too cynical lately!

Both products are known to be beneficial to OA sufferers however, as RA is auto-immune and not wear and tear it is thought not to be of benefit to these sufferers.