Side Effects of Joint Care Supplements

Supplements commonly used for joint care include glucosamine, chondroitin (chondroitin sulfate) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). Although more research is needed, there is some evidence that these supplements can provide relief of joint pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, glucosamine may be taken regularly and well-tolerated for 30 to 90 days, chondroitin for up to three years and MSM up to 12 weeks. However, even within those guidelines, you may experience a number of side effects.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Glucosamine and chondroitin may both cause a number of gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, loss of appetite, flatulence (gas), dyspepsia (indigestion/stomach upset), heartburn, diarrhea, constipation and vomiting. MSM is also associated with stomach upset and diarrhea.

Heart and Breathing Side Effects

Glucosamine and chondroitin may cause temporary increases in heart rate and blood pressure. They may also produce heart palpitations, chest pain, breathing difficulties, a feeling of tightness in the throat or chest, exacerbation of previously well-controlled asthma.

Blood Sugar Side Effects

There has been some debate over whether glucosamine (or glucosamine with chondroitin) supplements alter blood sugar levels. Blood sugar complications have been identified as a theoretical risk based on animal models; however, research with humans has shown mixed results. A study published in the December 2006 issue of "Journal of Family Practice" reports that glucosamine does not appear to adversely impact blood sugar control for those without diabetes or glucose intolerance, or for those whose diabetes is well-controlled. There is some evidence, however, that glucosamine can worsen glucose intolerance in people with untreated or undiagnosed diabetes. More research is needed to clarify these findings, but current recommendations are that those with diabetes or hypoglycemia should exercise caution when using glucosamine.

Rare Side Effects

A number of additional rare side effects have been reported or identified through scientific studies. MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin may all cause headache. Glucosamine and chondroitin may cause insomnia, hives, rash, photosensitivity (sun allergy) and drowsiness. Both supplements may also theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, so people with bleeding disorders or those taking drugs that can increase the risk of bleeding should exercise caution and consider modifying dosage.

Glucosamine may cause a toughening of the nails, and animal research indicates glucosamine theoretically may increase the risk for the development of cataracts in the eyes. Abnormal levels of protein in the urine have also been observed in several human cases, as has acute interstitial nephritis (swelling and dysfunction of the kidneys) and increased blood levels of creatine phosphokinase (an enzyme found in heart, brain and skeletal muscle). It is believed that impurities from some glucosamine products may cause some of these side effects.

Chondroitin may cause hair loss, swelling in the lower extremities, euphoria, motor uneasiness and eyelid edema (swelling). Animal research has shown it can cause bone marrow suppression. Chondroitin is also associated with the risk of increased spread or recurrence of prostate cancer, so those with prostate cancer who those who have had prostate cancer should not take chondroitin supplements.