Glucosamine is an amino monosaccharide (a sugar molecule with a nitrogen group attached) that occurs naturally in almost all human tissues, but is highly concentrated in connective tissues (joints) and cartilage.[1]
The body uses glucosamine to synthesize glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans. Notably, glycosaminoglycans are structural components present in both cartilage and joints, playing a crucial role in providing these tissues with elasticity, strength, and flexibility.[1]
Although glucosamine is not an FDA-approved treatment, glucosamine supplements are commonly used as adjunct therapy for the management of osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, studies investigating the effectiveness of glucosamine have produced conflicting results.[2]