Indications

Carticare TS (Glucosamine Sulfate & Chondroitin Sulfate) is indicated as a dietary supplement for the treatment of:

• Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, spine, hand, and other locations.
• It is also beneficial for: rheumatoid arthritis, sports injuries, migraine, various skin problems (e.g., psoriasis), vascular complications (e.g., atherosclerosis), kidney stones, and inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, leaky gut syndrome).

Pharmacology

This is a combination therapy designed to support and repair cartilage:

• Glucosamine Sulfate: A natural amino-sugar and the essential building block for glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and proteoglycans, which form articular cartilage. Supplementation increases Glucosamine levels, facilitating the production and repair of cartilage and other connective tissues like ligaments and tendons.
• Chondroitin Sulfate: A GAG that also provides substrate for proteoglycans. It protects existing healthy cartilage by inhibiting the MMP enzyme, which breaks down proteoglycans.
• Synergistic Effect: Combining the two is highly effective for severe Osteoarthritis, treating both symptoms and signs, and potentially modifying disease progression. It is reported to be as effective as NSAIDs for pain, with better tolerability.

Dosage & Administration

The dose may be adjusted based on response and body weight. Doses can be tapered after 60 days.

Typical Dosage by Body Weight:

• Under 54 Kg: 1000 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 800 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day.
• 54 Kg to 91 Kg: 1500 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 1200 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day.
• Over 91 Kg: 2000 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 1600 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day.

Interaction

• Anticoagulants: Chondroitin may enhance the blood-thinning effects of anticoagulants like Warfarin and Heparin.
• No significant interactions have been reported with most other common drug classes (e.g., antibiotics, antihypertensives, antidepressants).

Contraindications

While there are generally no known contraindications, proven hypersensitivity or allergies to Glucosamine or Chondroitin (e.g., allergic to shellfish or sulfur) is a contraindication.

Side Effects

Safety studies show no demonstrable side effects. Rarely, mild and reversible side effects such as intestinal flatulence may occur, similar to placebo.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should not supplement with Glucosamine Sulfate or Chondroitin Sulfate, as their effects on a developing fetus have not been sufficiently studied. Use during pregnancy or lactation should be with caution and medical advice.

Precautions & Warnings

• Diabetes Mellitus: Patients are advised to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly when taking Glucosamine.
• Hepatic/Renal Impairment: Administration to patients with severe liver or kidney problems should be under appropriate medical supervision.
• Children: Children should not be supplemented with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.

Therapeutic Class

Stimulation of Cartilage formation.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.