Expert: Dr Mohd Tariq Salman - 7/4/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello Dr.Salman,

COuld you please tell me what the difference between Glucosamine and Glucosamine Sulphate are in terms of their medical properties? As well as there difference in cartilage repair?
Additionally, some of these supplements also list the ingredient MSM, can you please tell me what this refers to and it's role?
Thank you.

ANSWER: Dear Matthew, Glucosamine Sulphate is one of the forms of Glucosamine. The other form - Glucosamine HCL- has not been studied as extensively as Glucosamine Sulphate but has been shown to have similar effects. MSM which stands for Methyl Sulfonyl Methane is a natural sulfur compound found in all living beings.MSM originates in the ocean and reaches the human food chain through rainfall.It contributes to healthy joints because, as a form of sulfur, it adds to the benefits of glucosamine and may aid glucosamine in its role in maintaining healthy cartilage as well as in helping to maintain joint flexibility & mobility. Many glucosamine users experience increased benefits after adding MSM to their supplement regimen.

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QUESTION: Thank you for your answer Dr.Salman

With respect to the info you gave, if one takes Glucosamine Sulphate with MSM is it simply an additive effect of sulfur?

As well, what is Glucosamin CHondrotin?

I suffered an sports related ankle injury in which cartilage was damaged and am thus interested in trying something that may maintain or improve the localized cartilage damage I've sustained. Which supplement does medical research indicate could have the largest benefit: Glucosamine Sulphate, Glucosamine Sulphate + Chondritin, or Glucosamie Sulphate + Chondriton + MSM.

Thank you Sir

Answer
Chondroitin sulfate is a polysaccharide made up of linear repeating units of D-galactosamine and D-glucuronic acid and is found in human cartilage, bone, skin, cornea, and the arterial wall. Sources used in nutritional supplements include bovine, pork and shark cartilage and whale septum. It is believed to promote water retention and elasticity in cartilage and inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage. While Glucosamine + Chondroitin and Glucosamine + MSM have been shown to have better effects than either given alone but, as per my knowledge, there is no study in which the three have been combined.