No effect of glucosamine sulfate on osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joints--a randomized, controlled, short-term study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effects of oral glucosamine sulfate, compared with placebo, on osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joints (TMJs).

STUDY DESIGN: Fifty-nine patients, consecutive referrals fulfilling the research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorder for TMJ osteoarthritis, confirmed roentgenographically, were randomized to the daily intake of 1,200 mg glucosamine sulfate or identical placebo capsules in this double-blind trial. Pain on visual and verbal rating scales and opening capacity were registered before and after 6 weeks of medication.

RESULTS: The signs and symptoms were similar in the groups initially and they were ameliorated over time. No differences in improvement between groups after treatment were indicated. Eight patients in the glucosamine group and 2 in the placebo group stopped the medication prematurely. Gastrointestinal side effects were reported by a total of 10 and 3 patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: Oral glucosamine sulfate was not superior to placebo in reducing signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis in the TMJs in this short-term trial.