What is Chondroitin?
Chondroitin, a naturally occurring substance made of sugar chains, is an organic compound. Chondroitin helps the body maintain fluidity and flexibility in joints. Alternative medicine has used chondroitin as a possible effective aid to treat osteoarthritis pain. Some other uses that have not been proven by research include treating cataracts or bladder problems. Chondroitin is often combined with extracts or other plants in a special preparation for treating these conditions. There is no way to know if chondroitin can be used as a treatment for any medical condition. The FDA has not approved the use of this product for medical purposes. Chondroitin is not a substitute for medication prescribed by your doctor. Chondroitin can be sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal compounds do not adhere to FDA standards when being produced and some supplements on the market have been found contaminated with dangerous drugs or metals. To minimise the risk, herbal or health supplements must be purchased from a reputable source. Chondroitin can be used in other ways than those listed in the product guide.
Side effects of Chondroitin
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat - please seek medical assistance immediately! Although the side effects of chondroitin are not known, it is believed to be safe when taken for up to six years. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using chondroitin immediately and contact your doctor.
- Heartbeats irregular;
- Swelling in your legs.
Side effects of chondroitin include:
- Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation;
- Mild stomach pain
- Hair loss;
- Eyelids that puff up
There may be other side effects. Call your doctor if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Aspirin, prednisone, ibuprofen, meloxicam, naproxen, and Cymbalta
Warnings
Please read all instructions provided with your product carefully. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
This product should not be used if you have an allergy to chondroitin.
If you are suffering from:
- Asthma;
- Prostate cancer;
- Haemophilia is characterised by bleeding or blood-clotting disorders.
The safety of chondroitin for an unborn child is unknown. If you are pregnant, do not use this product unless you have spoken to your doctor. Chondroitin can pass into breastmilk and harm nursing babies. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not use this product unless you have spoken to a doctor. Never administer herbal or health supplements directly to children without consulting with their healthcare provider first.
How to take chondroitin?
Consult your doctor before using herbal supplements. Consult a health practitioner trained in herbal or health supplement use. Use chondroitin as directed by the label or your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Use only the recommended amount of this product. Use different formulations separately or only with medical advice. Combining different formulations increases the risk of a chondroitin overdose. If the condition that you are treating with chondroitin doesn't improve or worsens while using this product, call your doctor. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. Use extra chondroitin instead of the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor has prescribed any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
You should not take chondroitin unless you have been advised by your doctor if you use any of the medications listed below:
- Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).
This list is incomplete. Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbs, may interact with chondroitin. This product guide does not list all possible interactions.
