Orthomolecular - Chondroitin Sulphate

Question 1

Chondroitin Sulphate

Answer 1

Chondroitin sulphate is a type of glycosaminoglycan (GAG).
* It is a major component of the extracellular matrix of many connective tissues. Most notably, this includes cartilage and joint connective tissue.
* Chondroitin provides resistance to compression, partially by thickening synovial fluid.
See diagram in notes

Question 2

Osteoarthritis

Answer 2

Therapeutic uses:
* Protects cartilage from degradation by:
o Reducing degradative enzymes.
o Decreasing inflammation —reduces inflammatory intermediates such as COX-2. This is also seen by reductions in the inflammatory marker ‘CRP’.
o Increasing hyaluronic acid synthesis —enhancing joint lubrication.

• Dosage: 200–400 mg two to three times a day or1000–1200 mg daily as a single dose.
  Exercise: Write down any other nutrients that support cartilage health.
• Vit. C: Cartilage repair, antioxidant (oxidative stress generated by inflammation)
• Vit. K: Needed for bone/ cartilage growth
• Omega 3: Reduces inflammation

Question 3

Supplementation:

Answer 3

• Supplemental chondroitin is usually well tolerated. Studies show that people absorb only 8–18% of orally-administered chondroitin.
• Safety: There is some concern that chondroitin might exacerbate asthma. Patients with asthma tend to have higher concentrations of chondroitin antibodies in the airway compared to people without asthma.
• Interactions: Potential increase in the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, leading to increased risk of bleeding and bruising.