Effects of glucosamine, chondroitin, or placebo in patients with osteoarthritis of hip or knee: network meta-analysis

Wandel S, Jüni P, Tendal B, et al. · BMJ

Pooled pain effects were small (about 0.3-0.5 cm on a 10 cm scale) and below the prespecified threshold for clinical relevance (0.9 cm); joint-space effects were minimal. Authors concluded the supplements do not meaningfully reduce joint pain or affect narrowing.

Population

10 large trials (n>=200 each) in hip or knee osteoarthritis

Intervention

Glucosamine, chondroitin, or their combination (any formulation)

Comparator

Placebo

Limitations

Restricted to large trials, which excludes some positive small studies; network assumptions pooled sulfate and hydrochloride formulations.