Glucosamine

Joint supplement
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Glucosamine is a joint supplement found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Jointace. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: glucosamine sulphate

What it is used for

Taken for knee and joint pain in osteoarthritis.

How it works

A building block of cartilage, taken for knee osteoarthritis; studies are mixed, with glucosamine sulfate doing slightly better.

How to take it

Usually 1,500 mg a day; give it 3 months before judging.

Common side effects

  • Stomach upset
  • Heartburn
  • Diarrhoea

Get medical help straight away if

  • Wheeze (in people with asthma)
  • Allergic reaction (often from shellfish)

Be careful

Often made from shellfish; people with diabetes should watch their sugar; may interact with warfarin.

Other medicines and interactions

May increase the effect of warfarin. Can raise sugar slightly in diabetes.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor before taking supplements in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Brands of Glucosamine (1)

Jointace

Common questions

What is Glucosamine used for?

Taken for knee and joint pain in osteoarthritis.

How does Glucosamine work?

A building block of cartilage, taken for knee osteoarthritis; studies are mixed, with glucosamine sulfate doing slightly better.

How should I take Glucosamine?

Usually 1,500 mg a day; give it 3 months before judging.

What are the side effects of Glucosamine?

Common: Stomach upset, heartburn, diarrhoea. Get help straight away for: Wheeze (in people with asthma), allergic reaction (often from shellfish).

Does Glucosamine interact with other medicines?

May increase the effect of warfarin. Can raise sugar slightly in diabetes.

Is Glucosamine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor before taking supplements in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Does Glucosamine need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Glucosamine?

Jointace.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.