CDS, Chondroitin sulfate, Chondroitin-4 and 6-sulfate
It comes from: bovine, porcine or avian cartilage
Chondroitin, a mucopolysaccharide, is one of the main constituents of cartilage. It is related to glucosamine. Chondroitin comes from natural sources or is synthetically manufactured. It plays a role in the formation of joint cartilage. When taken orally, it's absorption is only about 8 to 18%.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often combined in a single product. However, it is not known if this combination is any more beneficial than taking each product alone. A possible synergy between these products remains to be established.
Used doses: 200 to 400 mg 2 to 3 times a day, or 800 to 1200 mg as a single daily dose
There is insufficient reliable information to conclude that chondroitin sulfate is effective in any other indication.
In 2004, Canada adopted new regulations that control the manufacturing, packaging, labeling and importing of natural health products. The new regulations also include an adverse reaction reporting system. Products that conform to the regulation's criteria are identified with a natural product number (NPN) and can be legally sold in Canada. This number indicates that the product meets specific criteria for safety and purity, not that it is effective for any indication.
Medicinal plant contents vary naturally from plant to plant - just as fruits from the same package may vary in taste and texture. There is no standard to measure the active content of each plant. Thus, efficacy of natural products should be expected to vary from brand to brand as well as from bottle to bottle of the same brand.
For more information about the Natural Health Products Regulations, or to check if a product has been assessed, visit the Health Canada website at www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodnatur/index-eng.php.
© Copyright Vigilance Santé
The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.