Studies where glucosamine was administered intramuscularly, intra-articularly, and intravenously have fairly consistently showed efficacy [Crolle 1980; Hehne 1984; Reichelt 1994].

More interestingly, trials using orally administered glucosamine have also shown good results. In one notable large open study [Tapadinhas 1982], pain was reduced, and more than 90% of patients treated with 1500 mg/day reported sufficient response. Physicians in this study noted only 5% of patients with an insufficient response. Additionally, patient response continued past the treatment period.

Two separate trials of oral glucosamine vs ibuprofen [Vaz 1982; Rovati 1992] resulted in comparable effects, although the glucosamine response took longer than ibuprofen response.

One recent trial also produced very promising results [Reginster 2001]. 212 patients were randomized to receive 1500 mg of glucosamine or placebo per day for 3 years. At the end of this time, patients on placebo experienced progressive joint-space narrowing and slight worsening in symptoms as assessed by WOMAC scores, while patients on glucosamine experienced no significant joint-space loss and improvement in symptoms. Notably, there were no differences in safety between the two groups.

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