"Chondroitin is a molecule that occurs naturally in the body. It is a major component of cartilage -- the tough, connective tissue that cushions the joints. ... Chondroitin helps to keep cartilage healthy by absorbing fluid (particularly water) into the connective tissue. It may also block enzymes that break down cartilage, and it provides the building blocks for the body to produce new cartilage. ... In the past, some researchers thought chondroitin may actually slow progression of the disease, unlike other current medical treatments for OA. (Many people take either acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, for OA pain). So far studies have not shown conclusively that chondroitin helps repair or grow new cartilage or stops cartilage from being further damaged. Chondroitin is often taken with glucosamine, another supplement that has been studied along with chondroitin for OA. Like chondroitin, glucosamine also has conflicting results."

"Chondroitin (a.k.a. chondroitin sulphate) is another naturally occurring substance in the body. As one of the major constituents of cartilage, it is an essential element in providing healthy structure and function. It has a crucial role in producing new cartilage, protecting it from damaging enzymes and maintaining the balance of fluids and nutrient supply within the cartilage. It has an anti-inflammatory effect, helping to reduce pain and swelling and aid mobility."

"Without knowing the source of the chondroitin (e.g., shark, porcine, or bovine) and the approximate age of the animal, it is impossible to get a reliable reference standard, and, thus, results from previous testing had yielded percentages between 50 and 400%. In 2007, David Ji et al. reported in the Journal of Analytical Chemistry an extremely accurate method of quantification. Th"

"The typical initial dose is 1500 mg of glucosamine and 1200 of chondroitin daily for 1- 2 months. If a response is obtained, the dose can be reduced to 1000 mg of glucosamine and 800 of chondroitin or less."

"Glucosamine - Typical recommended therapeutic dosage is 1500 mg per day, either as a single dose or in two or three divided doses, for 30 to 90 days duration. Some studies recommend a daily glucosamine dosage of 20 mg per kilogram of body weight, which gives a more individualized approach. A preventative supplemental dosage could safely vary from 500 mg to 1500 mg per day according to the individual. Chondroitin sulphate - For injury prevention or to supplement your diet 400 mg per day is adequate. Between 800 mg and 1200 mg chondroitin daily (in two or three divided doses) is the usual recommended therapeutic dosage. Research using a regime of intermittent chondroitin sulphate supplementation, alternating 3 months treatment with 3 months break, indicates positive results for people with mild forms of osteoarthritis. When positive results are gained after one to two months on the recommended therapeutic dosage it is a good idea to then reduce your daily dosage of each by a third (to 1000 mg glucosamine and 600 - 800 mg chondroitin) and monitor your body s response. A lower daily dosage than the generally recommended one may be adequate supplementation for some individuals."