A Norwegian study questions the effectiveness of glucosamine.
It is commonly marketed as a way to relieve joint and muscle pains like back pain or pain due to osteoarthritis.
Researchers at the University of Oslo undertook a six-month study with 250 participants who had arthritic pain. One group received a daily dose of glucosamine, while the other group received a placebo.
At the end of the study, researchers found no significant difference in pain reduction between the two groups. They concluded that glucosamine was no better than a placebo at relieving pain.
Glucosamine is harvested from crustacean shells. It contains chemicals that allow the body to maintain healthy cartilage, protect joints and reduce pain.
However, these effects are challenged by this new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The Norwegian researchers write: "Our findings suggest that glucosamine is not associated with a significant difference in pain-related disability, low back and leg pain, health related quality of life, global perceived effect of treatment, or use of concomitant medications or therapy."