Glucosamine and chondroitin have been linked to liver damage in the past. Is this still a concern?
Not likely. While combinations of glucosamine and chondroitin have been linked with acute liver injury in several case reports, in most cases it’s not clear if the reported adverse events were directly related to glucosamine, chondroitin, the combination, or other ingredients. Additionally, many subsequent studies have found that liver injury isn’t among the most common or concerning side effects for these products.
If patients ask about safety concerns related to glucosamine or chondroitin, explain that the most common side effects aren’t related to the liver at all. Rather, they both tend to be associated with stomach complaints, such as bloating and diarrhea.
To learn more, check out our recently launched CE course: Understanding Glucosamine & Chondroitin.
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