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Duraflex (MSM)

Generic name: chondroitin, glucosamine, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) [kon-DROI-tin, gloo-KOSE-a-meen, and METH-il-sul-FON-il-METH-ane]
Brand names: Duraflex, Glucosamine Chondroitin Advanced, Osteo Bi-Flex Advanced, Osteo Bi-Flex Plus MSM, X Ray Dol Triple Action,… show all 10 brands
Drug class: nutraceuticals

What is Duraflex?

Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance made of sugar chains. Chondroitin helps the body maintain fluidity and flexibility in joints. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance believed to aid in the development and renewal of cartilage (the hard connective tissues primarily located on bones near joints), as well as keep it lubricated and flexible for better joint movements. Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring form of sulfur that helps support muscles and tendons in the body. The combination of chondroitin, MSM, and glucosamine has been used as an alternative medicine to treat osteoarthritis and muscle damage from exercise. There is no way to know if chondroitin, glucosamine, and MSM are effective at treating medical conditions. The FDA has not approved the use of this product for medical purposes. This product is not intended to replace medication prescribed by your doctor. Chondroitin is sold as a herbal supplement, along with glucosamine and MSM. Many herbal compounds are not manufactured according to regulated standards, and some supplements on the market have been found to be contaminated with toxic drugs or metals. To minimize the risk, herbal or health supplements must be purchased from a reputable source. Chondroitin, glucosamine, and MSM can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Duraflex

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

Duraflex's side effects may include:

  • Gas, bloating, heartburn, and nausea are all symptoms of gas.
  • Headache, drowsiness;
  • Diarrhea, constipation;
  • You may experience swelling in your ankles and feet.
  • Itching, skin irritation;
  • Eyelids that puff up

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warnings

Please read all instructions on the label or package of your product. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.

Before you take this drug

You should not use this product if you are allergic to chondroitin, glucosamine, or methylsulfonylmethane.

If you are suffering from:

  • Diabetes;
  • A bleeding disorder or blood clotting condition, such as hemophilia.
  • Asthma or allergies
  • Prostate cancer;
  • High-cholesterol
  • High blood pressure.

There is no way to know if chondroitin, glucosamine, and MSM can harm an unborn child. If you are pregnant, do not use this product. Consult your doctor before using it.There is no way to know if chondroitin and MSM pass into breast milk or if they could harm a baby who is nursing. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not use this product. Don't give herbal or health supplements to children without consulting a doctor.

How to take Duraflex?

Consult your doctor before using herbal supplements. Consult a health practitioner trained in herbal supplements. Use the product as directed. This includes following any instructions from your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Use only the recommended amount of this product. Your symptoms may not improve for several weeks. If your condition does not improve within a few weeks after using chondroitin, glucosamine, and MSM or worsens, call your doctor. The glucose (sugar levels) in your blood may rise if you take glucosamine. You may need to monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently if you have diabetes while taking this drug. It may be necessary to adjust the insulin dosage. You may need to stop taking MSM, MSM glucosamine, and chondroitin at least two weeks before surgery if you are planning on having it. You should not alter your medication or dose without consulting your doctor. Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Avoid taking chitosan, which is usually marketed as an aid to weight loss, while taking MSM, chondroitin, and glucosamine. Chitosan may make it more difficult for your body to absorb chondroitin.

Interaction with other drug

You should not use this product without consulting your doctor if you take any of the medications listed below:

  • A blood thinner—warfarin. (Coumadin and Jantoven).
  • Cancer medicine—doxorubicin, etoposide.

This list is incomplete. Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products, may interact with MSM, chondroitin, and glucosamine. This product guide does not cover every possible interaction.