Chondroitin Sulfate

ByLaura Shane-McWhorter, PharmD, University of Utah College of Pharmacy
Reviewed/Revised Mar 2024
VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION

Chondroitin sulfate is a natural component of cartilage. It is extracted from shark or cow cartilage or manufactured synthetically. It is frequently combined with .

(See also Overview of Dietary Supplements.)

Claims for Chondroitin Sulfate

People take chondroitin sulfate by mouth for osteoarthritis

Evidence for Chondroitin Sulfate

Side Effects of Chondroitin Sulfate

Chondroitin sulfate seems to have no serious side effects. Among the most common side effects are stomach pain, nausea, and other digestive tract symptoms. However, unless the chondroitin sulfate is pharmaceutical grade, it has the potential to transmit infections with bacteria, viruses, or prions.

Drug Interactions with Chondroitin Sulfate

Recommendations for Chondroitin Sulfate

More Information

The following English-language resource may be useful. Please note that THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of this resource.

  1. National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Osteoarthritis: What You Need To Know

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