Glucosamine HCl (standalone)

Tier 3 — weak evidence · Joint health · OA · HCl form · Shellfish · Cartilage

An amino sugar that is a building block of cartilage and synovial fluid. The HCl form is more concentrated by weight (83% pure vs 65% for sulfate) and avoids the high sodium load of glucosamine sulfate, making it preferable for people with hypertension. The GAIT trial (1,583 participants) found glucosamine no better than placebo overall, but showed a significant effect in the subgroup with moderate-to-severe pain. Evidence for structural OA protection is weaker than for chondroitin sulfate, but combining both may provide additive benefit. Many products labelled "glucosamine" contain…

Dose: 1,500 mg/day glucosamine HCl; may be paired with 800 mg chondroitin sulfate for combined joint support