What is Glucosamine? According to The Horse, “Glucosamine is a common ingredient in oral joint health supplements that are widely administered to horses with osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is available in a number of different forms including hydrochloride, sulphate, and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. To date, there is conflicting evidence surrounding the use of glucosamine for the management of osteoarthritis, regardless of species. ‘It has been proposed that the type of glucosamine used may impact efficacy,’ explained Sheila Laverty, MVB, Dipl. ACVS, professor and specialist in equine surgery in the University of Montreal’s Veterinary School.
“A recent review article suggests that the most favorable clinical trial results of osteoarthritis in humans were associated with the use of glucosamine sulphate, which is currently available for human use by prescription only in European countries.
“In the study by Laverty and colleagues, horses were administered clinically relevant doses of glucosamine hydrochloride or glucosamine sulphate (20 mg/kg) via nasogastric intubation. They administered the preparation of glucosamine sulphate reported to be beneficial in Europe. Both types of glucosamine were absorbed and were measurable in synovial fluid at one, six, and 12 hours after administration.”
Research and Testimonials:
A Colorado horse owner tells about her horse’s success with the glucosamine within EquiPride, “Since I doubled up on Shaker’s EquiPride top dressing (1 cup AM and 1 cup PM), his pain in his right rear hip has disappeared! I am SO relieved. He no longer holds his right rear leg in the air and no pain even after riding him for 2+ hours! (I used to give him 2cc’s of bute an hour before riding. No longer needed.) I am sure it is due to the glucosamine, etc., in the EquiPride that has helped him tremendously. His winter coat is so shiny and his feet are extremely healthy! I am SO glad I found EquiPride products!” –Sharon J, Lakewood, CO
Questions for You:
Have you taken glucosamine for your personal joint health? What have you noticed with your own movement? Has your own experience with joint supplements prompted you to research joint health for your horses?