Glucosamine sulfate is an amino sugar synthesized in our bodies from glucose. It is the starting point for important macromolecules that make up many body tissues including proteoglycans, the substance of cartilage in the joints. It is involved in the synthesis of mucous membranes in the digestive and respiratory tract. It is one of the chemicals that forms the cushioning ingredients in joint fluids and surrounding tissue. It contributes to making the synovial fluid thick and elastic. In other words, Glucosamine sulfate plays a role in the formation of nails, tendons, skin, eyes, synovial fluid, bone, ligaments, heart valves and in mucous secretion of the digestive, respiratory, and urinary tracts. Any deficiency of glucosamine can slow the production of these macromolecules causing specific weakness in these tissues. Glucosamine sulfate’s positive effects on degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis are touted by many.

Glucosamine sulfate has a positive effect on a variety of health problems, primarily those that involve the breakdown of synovial fluid, damage to muscles, tissues, and ligaments, inflammation of disc and sciatica nerve, and inflammation of joints associated with aging. When our lubricating synovial fluid becomes thin, its ability to cushion is reduced. Cartilage, bones, and tendons can rub against each other causing damage, loss of movement and pain. Especially excruciating pain results when discs in the spinal cord put pressure on the nerves because the synovial fluid is too thin. Glucosamine sulfate makes the synovial fluid thick and gelatinous increasing its cushioning ability, lessening the friction and pain.

Degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis is a chronic condition primarily of the weight bearing joints of the body. Almost half the population has some form of joint degeneration by age 60. It is also associated with certain occupations and sports such as ballet and football, or it can occur in a joint after an injury or fracture. "In OA the normally smooth cartilage becomes softened and dull. It begins to lose its elasticity, and its surface may become worn in spots. It also thins out, so it can’t absorb as much synovial fluid. Consequently, the bones move closer together, and the joint space narrows. Eventually the cartilage may grow so thin in spots that the bones begin to rub against each other." (David S. Pisetsky. The Duke University Medical Center Book of Arthritis. Fawcett Colombine Books. 1991.) Small pieces of bone and cartilage may become loose and get caught inside the joint or cause bony spikes that irritate the joint. As we age there is less ability to manufacture and restore cartilage. Symptoms of degenerative joint disease include stiffness, soreness when initiating movement, and varying degrees of pain, from minor to intense.

A common misconception is that nothing can slow osteoarthritis - that it is a progressive condition where only the pain can be managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Advil, Motrin, aspirin, Inocin, etc. Recent research shows that these powerful drugs do suppress the painful symptoms but may also accelerate the progression of degenerative joint disease. Studies have shown that these drugs contribute to cartilage destruction and inhibit new cartilage formation. (F.M. Brooks et al. NSAID and osteoarthritis-help or hindrance? J. Rheumatol. 9:3-5, 1982.) Prolonged use of these anti-inflammatory drugs may also lead to gastro-intestinal bleeding or liver and kidney damage.

Glucosamine sulfate has shown remarkable results in the successful management and even reversal of osteoarthritis. Unlike NSAIDs, glucosamine sulfate addresses more than the pain. It gets right to the root of the problem - by stimulating connective tissue production and repairing damaged joints. We know too well the numerous side effects associated with long term use of NSAIDs. This gives glucosamine sulfate even more appeal. It has proven virtually nontoxic, with few adverse side effects reported.

Glucosamine sulfate is isolated from shellfish chitin and converted to glucosamine sulfate. Natural Factors glucosamine sulfate is 99% pure and should not be a problem for those allergic to shellfish.

First reports in scientific literature were in the 1970s. In those early days it was glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl) that was used.

Researchers have found no contraindications for glucosamine sulfate.

Yes. "Sulfa" short for sulfonamide refers to an old-fashioned antibiotic and has no connection whatsoever with the organic compound glucosamine sulfate. "It is impossible to be allergic to sulfur because sulfur is an essential mineral. The sulfate form of sulfur is present in relatively high concentrations in human blood." (Michael T. Murray, The Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Prima Publishing. 1996.)

A bit of chemistry here: glucosamine sulfate is produced by combining glucose with glutamine to form glucosamine through the action of the enzyme glucosamine synthetase. NAG is also produced this way. However, there is one more step: it is then acetylated to form n-acetyl glycosamine or NAG.

Over 20 double-blind studies have been conducted on glucosamine sulfate. NAG has not been nearly as rigorously tested. Glucosamine sulfate is a glucosamine molecule attached to a sulfur molecule. The sulfur molecule helps glucosamine metabolism. Glucosamine sulfate has a 98% absorption rate and when absorbed is distributed directly to join tissues. NAG, quite a different molecule, is not as easily absorbed and handled quite differently by the body. Glucosamine is a very small molecule compared to NAG. It’s like swallowing a flaxseed versus a whole grapefruit. Glucosamine sulfate is the preferred form because the sulfur molecule helps to metabolize any extra glucosamine and it links to other sulfur molecules in the joints which increases cartilage strength.

Most regular glucosamine sulfate products available contain between 8% and 12% sodium, and 12% chloride. Chloride can also be a problem for those with hypertension. (Percentages are by weight)