What is the evidence for glucosamine chondroitin in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee?
AMSTAR Rating
Summary
Patient Population:
In trials that were included in the updated meta-analysis: mean age of participants ranged from 57 – 63 years. Proportion of female participants ranged from 52% – 68% (2 trials).
Intervention:
Chondroitin sulfate o.d., po 800mg.
Comparison:
There were three studies (total) included in the updated meta-analysis. All studies were subjected to critical appraisal as per the method described in 2008. All received a Jadad score of 4/5. Trial size ranged from 257-622.
Outcome:
- Joint space width: chondroitin vs. placebo – significant difference in favour of chondroitin (ES=0.23; 95% CI 0.11 to 0.35).
- Overall: The authors suggest that chondroitin sulfate has a small, positive, effect (at a dose of 800 mg per day) as a structure-modifying-agent in individuals with symptomatic OA of the knee.
Guideline Recommendations
| Source | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| AAOS (Knee OA) | Strong evidence against use |
| AAOS (Hip OA) | Moderate evidence against use |
| NICE | Do NOT use |
| ACR (2019) Chondrotin | Conditionally recommended |
| ACR (2019) Glucosamine | Strongly against |
Outcomes Assessed
- Benefit
- Harm
- Inconclusive
Chondroitin vs. Placebo
Pain
Function
Joint space width
Relevant Clinical Info
This review looked at studies of chondrotin only.
Clinical impact of the outcome of joint space width is not known.
Participant Information
of participants
Female
Mean age of 57-63 years.
