my q's - chondroprotective agents

Question 1

category 1 - polysuplhated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs)

Answer 1

• help add the building blocks of cartilage formation and repair
• stimulate hyaluronic acid production
• mild anti-inflammatory effects

examples of PSGAGs

• pentosan polysulphate (catrophen)
• polysulphated glycoaminoglycan injection (adequan)

side effects
- can interfere with blood clotting, cause hemathrosis (bleeding into joint) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)

Question 2

category 2 - hyaluronans

Answer 2

• lubricants that reduce trauma and improve joint lubrication
• available as hyaluronic acid injection

Question 3

category 3 - glucosamines & chondroitin sulphate

Answer 3

• supply nutrients for joint function and aid in cartilage repair
• mild anti-inflammatory effects
• given orally