Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Joint Pain and Cartilage Protection: Meta-Analysis Including the GAIT Trial
Wandel S, et al.
Evidence is still building up
Summary
A network meta-analysis evaluating glucosamine and chondroitin (alone and combined) for pain and function in knee and hip osteoarthritis. Including the GAIT trial (n=1583) across 10 RCTs, no statistically significant difference from placebo was found overall. However, a subgroup with severe OA showed significant pain reduction with combination therapy. Separate studies suggest possible long-term cartilage protection. Safety profile is favorable.
Key findings
- 1
No significant difference from placebo overall (moderate OA)
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Significant pain reduction with combination therapy in severe OA subgroup
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Possible long-term cartilage protection suggested by separate studies
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Favorable safety profile with no serious adverse effects reported
- 5
Large placebo effect and high individual variability
Last checked: 2026-06-24