6. What is the role of sulfate ions and why is it preferable to administer Glucosamine Sulfate rather than other glucosamine salts, such as glucosamine hydrochloride?

Proteoglycans in the articular cartilage matrix consist of a proteic filament with side chains consisting of glycosaminoglycans, which are complex polysaccharides and are sulfated in their main constituents (which are glucosamine derivatives). Therefore the rate of proteoglycan production depends on the quantity of sulfate available to the chondrocytes. Furthermore, the sulfate esters of the glycosaminoglycan side chains of proteoglycans are essential for the elasticity and water-binding capacity in the cartilage matrix. Finally, sulfate ions also contribute to the inhibition of cartilage degrading enzymes.

Therefore, Glucosamine Sulfate offers these distinct pharmacological advantages compared to simpler glucosamine salts such as glucosamine hydrochloride. In any case, since practically all available clinical trials have been performed with Glucosamine Sulfate, it is impossible to know if glucosamine hydrochloride has the same efficacy and safety in the absence of comparative studies.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.