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Results of Breakthrough Research Trial Support Effectiveness of Glucosamine, Chondroitin in Treating Pain From Osteoarthritis

Date: 9th December 2008, Source: National Institutes of Health Supports

The natural supplements
industry received significant news today when the National Institutes of
Health (NIH) released the results of its highly anticipated
Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) involving the use
of the nutrients glucosamine and/or chondroitin by individuals experiencing
pain from osteoarthritis. Presented at the American College of Rheumatology
(ACR) Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego, the study demonstrates strong
support for the use of a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin by
osteoarthritis patients to relieve moderate to severe pain.
"As a pioneer in the glucosamine/chondroitin category, we are thrilled
with the results of this large-scale study," said Dr. Luke R. Bucci, vice
president of research at Schiff Nutrition International. "The findings
further support the growing scientific literature demonstrating the benefits
of natural supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin in promoting joint
health -- and that's great news for those who suffer from osteoarthritis."
The five-year study, sponsored by the NIH, assessed the effectiveness and
safety of glucosamine and chondroitin -- either used alone or combined. The
study concluded that a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin was proven
to be even more effective than prescription pain medication in treating
moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis. These findings were
mirrored by the results from a second study, the European-based Glucosamine
Unum in Die Efficacy (GUIDE) Trial, which was also presented at the ACR's
Annual Scientific Meeting. The results of the GUIDE Trial concluded that
glucosamine sulfate (1,500 mg/day) was more effective than acetaminophen
(3,000 mg/day) on various pain and mobility indices of osteoarthritis.
Healthy cartilage -- the smooth, elastic padding that covers the ends of
bones -- absorbs energy from the shock of physical movement, and allows bones
to glide over one another. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage wears away
due to natural aging, sports injuries or repetitive motion -- allowing bones
to rub together, causing pain, swelling and loss of motion in the joint.
Osteoarthritis affects more than 21 million Americans.
The glucosamine/chondroitin blend in Schiff's Move Free(R) products -- the
same nutrients used by the NIH in its trial -- is designed to support joint
cartilage and maintain healthy joint function. Glucosamine, a natural amino
sugar produced by the body, plays an important role in providing the stimulus
for building healthy cartilage. Chondroitin, a naturally occurring nutrient
in the connective tissue, attracts water to the area, and it makes the
cartilage more elastic and better able to absorb shock. In addition, Move
Free products also contain Joint Fluid (hyaluronic acid), a component of
synovial fluid -- the natural lubrication that allows joints to glide easily
and smoothly over one another. Importantly, a recent independent study showed
that a blend of glucosamine/chondroitin with the addition of Joint Fluid was
more effective in providing joint comfort than glucosamine/chondroitin alone.
The best selling Move Free joint care line includes Move Free(R) Double
Strength, Move Free(R) Triple Strength and Move Free(R) Plus MSM. Move Free
products are available at club stores, mass merchandisers, grocery stores,
pharmacies, health food and drug stores nationwide.