Chondroitin

Major therapeutic interest

• Relieving joint pain due to mild osteoarthritis;
• Slowing the development of osteoarthritis.

Other therapeutic interest / Traditional Use

• Relieving dry eyes, moistening eyes, used in artificial tears;
• Used as an injectable viscoelastic agent in cataract surgery to protect eye tissue during intraocular lens implants.

Cons-indications

• Bleeding disorders and hemophilia;
• Prostate cancer: Risk of spreading cancer cells;
• Asthma: Difficulty controlling attacks;
• Pregnancy and/or breastfeeding: Safety has not yet been established.

Important Notice

• Chondroitin sulfate is a powerful antithrombotic agent. Some studies have recommended its use as an anticoagulant alternative to heparin. Avoid concomitant use with drugs having a similar effect.

Drug Interactions

Known human interactions

Suspected interactions

• May increase the effects of anticoagulants/antithrombotic agents (Coumadin, Lovenox, heparin, etc.), anti-platelet drugs (Plavix, Ticlid), and of salicylic acid derivatives (acetylsalicylic acid or ASA, aspirin, Entrophen, etc.) and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (Voltaren, Ibuprofen [Advil, Motrin], Naprosyn, etc.)

Parts used

Beef cartilage extract

Main constituents

• Extract of the cartilage of bovine trachea. 

Other names

Chondroïtine 4- sulfate, chondroïtine 4 et 6-sulfate Beef cartilage extract, Sulfate de chondroïtine, Chondroitin sulfate, galactosaminoglucuronoglycan sulphate