Chondroitin or chondroitin sulphate is part of the matrix composition of cartilage, protecting it from enzymatic reactions and free radical damage. The molecule with the widest consensus in international rheumatology congresses - after glucosamine - is chondroitin.

But is taking Chondroitin alone enough?

Your joints are aching and your doctor has prescribed a treatment based on Chondroitin alone? In order to reduce your joint discomfort as much as possible, it is recommended to combine Glucosamine with Chondroitin. In particular, the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin is particularly suitable for strengthening very weak joints. Like glucosamine, chondroitin is also a molecule naturally synthesised by the joints. Chondroitin is part of the proteoglycans, which allow the cartilage to remain properly hydrated and thus to absorb shocks correctly.

1. Taking 1200mg of chondroitin per day shows comparable benefits to diclofenac (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) after three months of use. Morreale P.J Rheumatol study. 1996.
2. Taking 800 mg of chondroitin per day for two years demonstrates a chondroprotective effect, i.e. preservation of cartilage integrity, compared to placebo. Kahan studies.
3. The large US government study GAIT shows that the combination glucosamine 1500 mg/d + chondroitin 1200 mg/d is more effective than either molecule alone for severe symptoms.
 

Over a 6-month period, efficacy was shown to be superior to celecoxib, the gold standard anti-inflammatory drug.
GAIT study American College of Rheumatology (ACR), San Diego 2005; New England 2006

All these reference studies were conducted with a dosage of 800 mg or 1200 mg of chondroitin.

CARTILAMINE CHONDRO is recommended in cases of more severe joint discomfort than described for Cartilamine 1500. It is suitable for severe osteoarthritis with strong cartilage degradation.
The combination of 1500 mg Glucosamine and 1200 mg Chondroitin has a more powerful effect than taking either molecule alone. Cartilamine Chondro may appear to have a high monthly cost, which must be appreciated in view of its formulation and effectiveness.

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