Active ingredient consistency of commercially available glucosamine sulfate products
Russell, A.S.; Aghazadeh-Habashi, A.; Jamali, F.
Journal of Rheumatology 29(11): 2407-2409
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0315-162X PMID: 12415601 Document Number: 547347
Objective: To assess the content of active ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) glucosamine sulfate (GLS) preparations. Methods: We analysed in a coded, blind manner 14 commercially available capsules or tablets of GLS, plus one herbal mixture as a control. We used a high performance liquid chromatography system as described. Results: The amount of free base varied from 41 to 108% of the mg content stated on the label; the amount of glucosamine varied from 59 to 138% even when expressed as sulfate. Conclusion: If GLS is used as a therapeutic agent, it is important that the products conform to a standard in their description. The content is probably best expressed in terms of free base.