Glucosamine is used to help relieve the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis (a joint disorder where the protective tissue that covers the ends of bones wears down causing joint pain, swelling and stiffness).
Take Glucosamine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about whether you should take this medicine with or without food. Different brands or preparations of this medicine may be taken differently.
Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine is available as a conventional tablet, effervescent tablet, capsule, or powder for oral solution.
If you are taking the effervescent tablet, dissolve it in at least 100 mL of water, then drink the solution immediately.
If you are taking the powder for oral solution, empty the entire contents of the sachet into at least 250 mL of water. Stir to dissolve the powder evenly in the water, then drink the solution immediately.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition.
Glucosamine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not take Glucosamine if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or to shellfish such as shrimp or crab.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- diabetes
- risk factors for heart disease
- asthma
- liver disease
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking Glucosamine, you may need to have regular blood tests (e.g. blood sugar or cholesterol levels) to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Glucosamine may cause any of the following side effects: headache, drowsiness, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach wind, indigestion, stomach pain, tiredness, rash, itchy skin, and flushing.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- blood-thinning medicines e.g. warfarin
- tetracycline (antibiotic)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Glucosamine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.