Joint Supplements
The Good, the Bad, and the Useless

By Dr. David F. Davenport, DVM, MS, CNS
Dr. Jim Blackford, DVM, MS, dACVS,
Dr. Michael R. Bishop, MD, PhD, FACOG
Dr. James Bailey, PhD Nutrition
edited into layman's terms, and updated
by Terry & Carly Mercer, with MD's Choice
Copyright 1998 - 2026, Terry E. Mercer and MD's Choice, Inc. 

Why Form, Ratios, and Science Matter

Arthrosamine uses Glucosamine Sulfate 2KCl (not HCl), MSM, vitamin C, and chelated manganese in researched ratios. The GAIT study tested glucosamine HCl and found it no better than placebo overall. Most joint products rely on symptom-masking herbs or unproven forms. MD’s Choice has offered a Results Based Guarantee since 1998.

Read the Science

The number of products claiming to help joint pain has grown rapidly over the last 50 years, and some really is 'insta-garbage.'

When ‘this project’ started, in the mid-90’s, there were only a handful of human joint supplements, and a couple animal joint supplements. Today, you can't avoid the advertisements claiming that this product or that one, is some 'magic bullet' or 'miracle cure' or will 'eliminate joint pain' quickly, can 'cure arthritis,' or is even 'a liquid joint replacement.' Of course most of it is SMOKE & MIRRORS, just an illusion of 'working’ by BLOCKING the pain, MASKING the symptoms, and honestly not really helping or fixing a darn thing! That is the sad reality we are faced with regarding the vast majority of the joint  products being advertised, promoted, and sold in big box stores, and pushed by the multi-million dollar drug companies on social media. 

G.A.I.T. Study (Glucosamine-chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial) was published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2006 (Clegg et al.; later structure follow-ups 2008–2010), but like most things contrary to what the media pushed for decades, it's been buried in the shadows... and ONLY OUT THERE FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR IT.

The study was initially supposed to span just six months. However, because the initial results supplement companies using 'glucosamine-chondroitin' did NOT confirm what their years of bogus marketing claimed, or what they hoped for, (cough, their product didn't just FAIL... they were scientifically like a line of lemmings walking off a cliff... fail, fail, fail, fail). So, they coughed up more money, more product, and the study was expanded to many years; involving many more than a thousand of human test subjects, spanning multiple universities, dozens of doctors, and hundreds of students.

Yet, their 'GLUCOSAMINE HCl & Chondroitin' products repeatedly FAILED... their Chondroitin only products completely FAILED; the Glucosamine HCl only product tests failed even worse... so then, with so much failure, those 'funding' and 'pushing' these studies attempted to cover up the fact they BLOCKED the nutrients that HAD SCIENCE PROVING THEY WORKED, were absorbed, and actually did something positive within the body, by trying to 'generalizing the name.' In much of 'their study abstracts' and discussions, "Glucosamine HCl" became JUST 'Glucosamine.'

Sorta like saying Terry, Dave, Mike, Frank, Bill, or John... are 'like all others' WITH THE SAME NAME. Common sense and logic says that isn't true, reality repeatedly proves it, but that's what they tried. When there wasn't a win, they tried to generalize, WHILE QUIETLY CHANGING THEIR OWN FORMULAS to include other things.

"Form MATTERS," and just using the name 'GLUCOSAMINE' doesn't change things. How the different types of Glucosamine 'work' - what they do, where they go, what they CAN effect, and HOW, are each and all COMPLETELY DIFFERENT within a mammals body. Again, FORM MATTERS! And if they knew nutrition, they would have known that fact. The stuff that actually works, in the right ways, and CAN BE ABSORBED & USED by the body, are little to nothing LIKE THOSE used in the assorted GAIT studies.

You can read their findings for yourself, but the conclusions were what the doctors that originally wrote the article below, and developed the key products at MD's Choice, already knew nearly 40 years ago: Glucosamine HCl is ineffective and very little of THAT TYPE OF Glucosamine, in the form of Glucosamine HCl, CAN actually get to the joint tissue, much less used by those tissues! Better yet, NO GLUCOSAMINE, from the Glucosamine HCl, gets there without that key 'exchange' of the HCl molecule for a SULPHATE molecule happening in the digestive tract!

How's that for science? There is nearly 60 years of science on that fact, compounded by the GAIT STUDY, yet, still today, many of the "Glucosamine" supplements in national chain stores, on tv adverts, and pushed to uninformed people over social media, still contain the less expensive, less effective, and less useable form of Glucosamine (HCl) rather than either of the proven Glucosamine Sulphate forms (NACl - sodium salt, or 2KCl - potassium salt... the latter of which is the ONLY TYPE/FORM we, at MD's Choice, use... for very real scientific reasons, though it tends to be a little more costly, and is tested for some VERY SPECIFIC RATIOS of glucosamine to sulphate, to potassium, BECAUSE IT ALL MATTERS!

Just like the proper mix of oil to gas for 2-cycle engines, the correct ratios of nutrients matter to absorption and functional use. Some companies have added a 'sulphate' to their version of 'glucosamine' (but don't actually 'use THAT form,' and they aren't honest about what type they STARTED WITH, how much, or most products still has a pile of blockers & masking agents added to their product). They seem to believe, like that 2-cycle gasoline, they can JUST toss in some sulphate into some generic glucosamine of unknown origin, variety, or form... mix it up... and viola, now they magically have 'glucosamine sulphate' but THAT IS NOT HOW IT WORKS IN REALITY.

GAIT STUDY --> Proving, REPEATEDLY, the two most popular ingredients used FAILED! <-- (linked, and will open in a new tab/window) The NIH Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Promotes actual healing
Which is the best long term option, by supplying the body the building blocks necessary to help the body heal itself (when possible); and those nutrients are delivered in forms it can readily use.

This second option is not the 'quick fix.'
It does not eliminate the pain and suffering in hours or days, but over time... as healing occurs. The second type of ‘works’ is far healthier, better for the body, and ALL THE ORGANS! (Hint: if you're in pain, use pain killers as prescribed, as necessary, but never daily, or for prolonged periods of time!)

SCIENCE, SCIENCE, SCIENCE…

We’ve been asked a few times, “IS THERE SCIENCE ON YOUR PRODUCTS?”

The answer to that is YES, and NO…


Yes – there is nearly 80 years of actual peer reviewed science on the specific ingredients used AND (more importantly) THOSE NOT USED in our products; and the doctors that formulated the products have a seriously impressive list of board certified credentials, and years of experience, particularly in NUTRITION and ACTUAL TREATMENT of patients. So, their choices weren't random, and didn't happen lightly. It wasn't just one or two people tossing stuff together in their basement.

More SCIENCE

Medicinal herbs do NOT belong in any daily supplement

For these reasons. Particularly none intended for prolonged use!

Companies manufacturing, promoting, marketing, selling, and delivering such ingredients should honestly list proper use, all known side effects, valid concerns, and honest dangers of the ingredients used within their product(s)... especially when USED AS DIRECTED FOR MONTHS OR YEARS. Sadly, most don't, won't, and the combination of their irresponsibility and the consumer's overuse and misuse of some of the supplements is why some groups push for more regulation of dietary supplements.

Medicinal herbs have nothing to do with 'diet.'

People really need to understand, and remember, "Just because things are "natural" doesn't mean that they are 'natural to the body' or that they are good to use daily." Or that they will remain 'good' if over used or misused

Understand

ALL DRUGS, including plant derived counter parts, that

offer 'drug activity' (medicinal herbs) in the correct dose, with the correct usage, can be very beneficial (especially in hormonal balances) for a time.

However, medicinal herbs, as with most all drugs, are seldom ever recommended or prescribed for daily prolonged use by professionals, because the majority of the drugs WILL result in 'the RANTS'(one or more of the following):

R

Resistance or immunity (you need more and more to accomplish the same thing).

A

Addiction

N

Negative interaction with other drugs... or treatment processes

T

Toxic Effect, OD, or build up (often slowly impacting the liver, kidneys, or even brain, over months or years).

S

Serious Side Effects. 

Natural isn’t always “safe” or necessarily better than the synthetic versions. 

Just because things are "natural" doesn't mean that they are natural to the body or that they are good. Both are concepts of scientific reality that are contrary to a lot of companies' marketing material, and what a number of seemingly good people will attempt to tell you. They either don't know any better, or are like that proverbial old west 'snake oil salesman' that just doesn't care what the truth really is, so long as they can make a buck (or 50) from you. 

The reality is that negative effects may take days, weeks, months, and sometimes even years. A lot depends on just exactly what might be causing the negative, as well as the individual body, the quantity taken, a person's diet, and exercise routine. It is also important if any drugs, or other supplements are being used, quality of the ingredients ingested, and the specific drugs and herbs used... as well as, where it came from, and how it was sourced, produced, and processed.

The one thing that is certain is that every single drug in existence whether "natural" or synthetic... DRUGS will eventually cause one or more of the above problems (RANTS) if they are overused, misused, or abused, and even when used daily for more than a few days or weeks at a time. Even Echinacea, which is one of the best 'natural' immune system boosters available (from nature), is recommended at no more than 3 weeks (21 days) maximum, and at least 10 days off... or the body WILL BECOME IMMUNE TO IT! 

Prolonged use of some herbs has proven to be life-threatening. And JUST THE USE of other's may help a normal person, under normal circumstances, but trigger the "N" (in RANTS).

For example, a person taking a regular dose of just ten milligrams of ginko biloba, or many other 'herbs' & spices can NOT undergo certain major surgeries because they could have issues with the anesthesia or even bleed to death (God help them if they were also taking some type of blood thinner, or blood pressure medicine at the same time).

Turmeric is another amazing 'medicinal herb' (especially when combined with curcumin and black pepper)... BUT it too is a blood thinner, and too much really can hurt you'; and it's NOT recommended for those already with blood pressure issues without a doctors specific approval. 

MOST herbs, drugs, and ingredients have other 'side effects' - problems, concerns, and indicators that most bodies should try to avoid. This is particularly true relating to long term use, common misuse, over use, and abuse. There is some very good peer reviewed third-party science about the cautions and concerns of MOST HERBAL REMEDIES.

Health and safety should be a valid concern, and worthy of your time to research which company you can trust. There are some herbal ingredients, as well as trace amounts of most heavy metals (often found in some minerals), that do not have an immediate effect, but gradually build up in the liver, kidneys, brain, and lungs... until those organs stop working. 

When choosing a joint supplement ("flex product")

the first thing you have to decide is: Do you just want to make the joints temporarily feel better OR do you want to help solve the underlying problem that is causing the pain?

The ingredients most commonly added to joint supplements are there either to mask or cover symptoms (pain or inflammation), not to address the underlying problems that are causing the pain. The reality is that a product intended for daily use, for a prolonged period of time cannot safely and effectively do both.

Drugs, which include most herbs, particularly the 'medicinal ones,' can quiet pain very quickly and effectively. However, for a body to use the building blocks provided through good nutrition to actually rebuild tissues, it usually takes at least 4-8 weeks for the pain to be reduced. If there are spinal and cartilage issues, it will take even longer.

We don't enjoy pain, but pain serves a very important purpose: it lets the rest of the body know that something is wrong. When a joint hurts, the natural response is for the other joints to do more of the work and let the painful joint rest. When there is a problem, such as an injury, a body's natural reaction is to try to 'baby' that painful joint... which can help (if the proper nutrition is there to feed the body what it needs to heal). However, it will also add extra wear & tear on the OTHER JOINTS (used to compensate for the injured joint). During that type, not only can the cartilage be at greater risk, but if that other joint also had issues, the issues will ultimately increase with the extra use... and muscles on the initial damaged joint can atrophy some over time, depending on their use and downtime.

So, it's really one of those proverbial 'double edged swords.' You don't want to be in pain, you can't just sit (lay or stand) around, you don't want to make any other matters worse... and you don't want to be living on pain killers or blockers... but it all TAKES TIME and the proper nutrition to fix the problem(s) the right way (and safely). 

On their own, joints heal very slowly.

But, if a damaged joint is fed the proper and necessary nutrients (through diet or supplementation), and isn't rested, it will certainly get worse.

In addition to not having the joint work as hard, the immune system supplies it with more blood than usual. This extra blood feeds the joint more nutrients so that it can repair faster, but it can only do that if those nutrients EXIST (again, in the diet or supplementation).

This natural healing process causes pain, inflammation, and swelling (results in actual symptoms).

However, trauma is not the only way joints get damaged. Normal use over time can lead to degeneration and breakdown. Running, jumping, pounding, carrying heavy loads, and normal daily movement all accelerate joint problems. Degenerative changes cause the normally smooth cartilage to become rough due to a loss of chondrocytes (the cells that make cartilage, fluid and connective tissues for the joint). When this happens, they do not produce normal synovial fluid or connective tissue, and pain becomes a very real symptom.

In traditional medicine, immediate masking of pain is accomplished through the use of drugs that are placed in the body either orally or by injection. These drugs (including herbal ingredients, which are plant drugs) change the way the body normally functions so that pain is not recognized and/or the immune system stops the inflammatory response (which also slows the healing process, and frequently allows the problem to GET WORSE... merely because the brain doesn't know it's suppose to 'take it easy' ON THE HEALING JOINT). The main types of drugs used are steroids (such as Cortisone or Prednisone), NSAID's – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – (such as Banamine, Phenylbutazone, Ibuprofen, Ketofen, or Aspirin), or other drugs that alter the recognition of pain and/or interfere with the immune response. 

Steroids and NSAID's may cause joints to deteriorate faster than if these drugs had not been used. These chemicals interfere with how tissues are made and how they heal. Since the pain is masked, they play a role in how the workload is divided among joints, slowing the healing and increasing the risk of further injury. Some of these drugs also decrease the joint's ability to use sulfur, which gives connective tissue its elastic strength.

Many of the "flex products" on the market contain herbs which do not contribute nutrients (building blocks) to the joint tissues.

Don't be fooled by the words "all natural" or "organic". Remember, there are many poisons found in nature.

"Natural" Doesn't mean what some claim

Since plants can't fight off insects or animals that want to eat them, they contain chemicals that are their defense mechanism, and ’cause changes in the way the predator's body works.

These chemicals do many different things. Some act like the animal's own hormones (which is what steroids do) and many actually attack the body's immune system. Depending on the specific plant, the amount eaten, and the size and type of animal or person, ingestion of herbs and their chemicals can cause death, abortions, seizures, or an altered activity of the nervous system. Herbs can also be used as antibiotics and anti-fungals, because they can also kill bacteria and fungus.

Even "Natural to the body" is sometimes a concern when there is TOO MUCH, or it's in the wrong place, or used the wrong way!

Glutamic Acid (Glutamate or Glutamine).


While this is not an herb, it should be mentioned because of its role as an excitatory amino acid (EAA), because mega doses are actually being used in some joint supplements, marketed for daily prolonged use. (which should be a concern)

When this amino acid is added to a brain, it causes seizures. Higher than normal concentrations are present in the brain of seizure patients. Research is being done to see whether blocking its activity will help control seizures; for those suffering from epileptic seizures. It is also being considered as an antidepressant, and for treatment of Parkinson's, because it is a synaptic inhibitor.

This amino acid is also naturally produced and released by joint nerves... in TRACE AMOUNTS in a healthy mammals body, to signal pain (and essentially 'leave bread crumbs' for the brain to 'send' extra nutrients to the right spots, to begin the healing process... assuming the necessary nutrients are in the diet or supplementation).

Ask yourself, logically, if that is how a healthy body normally deals with this amino acid, what really happens when an otherwise healthy body is flooded with an over abundance of it?

Science has shown, in a healthy mammals body, more glutamate is naturally released when more pain that is felt in a joint. So, when companies using this ingredient claim pain relief, and 'quick results,' they might be right... but not because it is fixing anything! Watch for mood changes, neural issues, and know that in high doses this nutrient is likely only confusing most mammals bodies, and merely blocking the brain (and really messing with their brain synapses and nervous system), especially with daily prolonged use.

Not too many years ago, there were professional athletes that broke bones, tore vital parts, suffered serious injuries... but, with enough pain killers & blockers attempt to keep on playing, competing, and trying. Often to only make matters worse.

Injecting a joint directly with glutamate (glutamic acid) produces pain, because this amino acid is naturally released by joint nerves to signal pain.

Yet, there was a popular "flex product" that contains glutamic acid and loudly proclaimed a '5 day cure' for the longest time, but as of 2016, we believe they either changed or discontinued that product, or toned down their rhetoric and misleading advertising; as we've not seen or heard much about it over the last few years.

But, for a few years, they claimed it in their product was because 'glutamate' is a precursor to 'glucosamine.' But that was no more true than someone claiming 'iron is a precursor to a magnet.... therefore, if I give you iron ore, I'm giving you a magnet.' Hopefully you see the flaw in that logic, and the hole in their claim.

Caution is given here because a review of this product in a popular publication discusses its dramatic and swift change in attitudes of horses, in particular. There is also research being done to determine Glutamic Acids role in seizures and the signaling of pain.

Valid Questions:
~ What will daily prolonged overuse do?
~ At what levels does it become dangerous?
~ How addicting is it?
~ Is there a withdrawal?
~ How does it mess with the brain?

These are only some of the questions NOT clearly answered by science over the last couple decades, since this 'ingredient' just started showing up in some joint supplement products, most preaching a ‘quick fix’ and 'instant results.' 

The only things that are sure: in some bodies, it seems that it might help mask pain, but there is zero actual science showing it helps heal anything joint related.

Marketing makes some things defy reality 

Hyaluronic Acid (H.A.) 

Consider the scientific reality of H A injections: used to replenish the synovial fluids , but doesn't do anything with the ligaments, tendons, or cartilage. (except as a side effect of having improved lubrication on THAT JOINT).

It's real, and if synovial fluid is the problem, or a primary component of the problem, the results will be almost immediate... because of where and how it is administered.

At best, these type of injections are like squirting WD40 on a squeaky hinge. It does nothing to the bent frame, the rust, or door's structural problem, but absolutely adds lubrication. It really masks a symptom of the rusty hinge or broken frame, for a time. Until the hinge starts squeaking again, or finally falls apart at some point in the future. The length of time will vary, depending on the condition to begin with... the continued use, the care in future use, and any other repairs (or treatment) happening to it.

The reality is that H A injections alone can only help a limited amount of specific and direct joint issues. Generally only those related strictly to the synovial fluid (lubricating fluid).

It is important to understand HOW the non-oral (ie. pure liquid) version of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is used: when a doctor uses it, they INJECT.

Notice: most HA injections are done IA (intra-articular – directly in the afflicted joint), rather than IM (intramuscular - directly in the muscle) or IV (intravenous – directly in the blood stream).

Positive results are less likely IV, and nearly impossible IM. It's been proven scientifically, tested both in the field and clinically over the last 20+ years.

So, what about oral HA then?

CONSIDER: If it's known to be significantly less effective when directly injected into the body via IM and IV, one must rationally ask: "How can HA effectively get to the joint going through the digestive tract?"

Also, molecularly, HA is absolutely larger than Chondroitin Sulphate (CS), which science has proven only 8 to 10% of the CS can make it into the blood stream. So, the next question is: "How much oral HA do you think actually gets into the system?"

These aren't new questions, with oral HA studies occurring the last 6 to 30 years by third parties have consistently shown only about 5% can be found to be absorbed 'in the body' with the majority of that mere 5% being found in the bone marrow and spinal column, and just a fractional amount in the synovial fluids. Over 90% of the oral HA passes through the system and is found in the poop in less than 24 hours. That makes some dang expensive manure!

Two of the most interesting studies were done by Wieder Int'l - one on rats, another on beagles (dogs) the results of both were consistent in what amount of radio tagged materials passed through the body, and where the small amount that was absorbed was found (the majority (over 95%) never made it to the joints).

Interestingly, the majority of the professionals that have actually paid attention to the science inject directly INTO THE JOINT to have a direct and real impact on the synovial fluid of that joint. They do not use Oral HA to treat anything! As they know that if it doesn't get to the joints from an IM or IV, it's really not going to do it through the digestive tract. 

Oral HA (Hyaluronic acid, which is also known as hyaluronate, also called hyaluronan, and is an anionic, nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan), may be an effective painkiller, for a time.

Yet, in reality, injecting directly IN THE JOINT is the most challenging, dangerous, for a variety of reasons (especially for Equine Vets). But that is exactly where 99.9% of the H A injections occur by the professionals. Not directly into the blood stream which is safer, and not in the muscle which is so much faster and easier... and more effective systemically, with most 'medicines,' but that is not how HA injections are given. Which should give all thinking people some pause, when the professionals won't administer it systemically... at a higher risk.


Then, when science shows the ingredients (the HA) doesn't survive, and isn't properly broke down or readily absorbed through the digestive tract, with the vast majority ending up in the poop (up wards of 90%)... the little bit that was 'taken up' was actually found in the spinal column and brain stem, one should wonder just exactly what it does in the body. It would stand to reason that it should be able to help all joint tissues in the body when injected directly into the blood stream... yet it doesn't. Therefore, it's not administered that way by the trained professionals.

Also, HA is made from rooster combs and bovine eyeballs... while natural to the mammals body, it is a non-native form (foreign to the body) not ‘designed’ for 'food stuff.'

Excerpt from the review summary- "…dietary supplements containing HA are not equivalent due to the inherent properties of the three major types of HA commercially available as dietary supplement materials. Consumers and health care professionals need to be aware of the different types of HA and their very large differences in properties (even before ingestion). One source, hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage, is clearly unlike native HA it does not match the real biological properties of native HA and consequently should not be represented as HA to consumers on product labels..." yet supplement manufacturers regularly use this type of 'HA' for oral application, many [marketing mavens] claiming it's a 'miracle.' At best, a smaller percentage might be actually used, but not by the actual joints, and upwards of 95% still passes through the body (unused)."

Again, upon evaluation of WHERE the little bit that remained in the body was actually found (the spinal column and brain stem), it's highly likely, though unsubstantiated, that the effects tend to lean toward Cox-2 inhibitors (pain blockers and maskers - similar to what Vioxx did, before it was pulled from the human market). Oral HA is positively NOT 'building blocks' or nutrients otherwise considered 'healing promoters' (or agents) regardless.

Further, HA is also a major component of skin, where it is involved in tissue repair. When skin is exposed to excessive UV-B rays, it becomes inflamed (sunburned) and the cells in the dermis stop producing as much hyaluronan, and increase the rate of its degradation. Hyaluronan degradation products then accumulate in the skin after UV exposure. Sounds good, right? Well, read on...

Another important scientific note: HA is also a component of the group A streptococcal extracellular capsule, and is believed to play a role in virulence. (that came from a peer reviewed study. Just wrap your head around that one).

Hyaluronic acid is, thus, often used as a tumor marker for prostate and breast cancer. And has been suspected since the turn of the century, but known since 2009, when the peer reviewed study was published. HA levels are also be used to monitor the progression of the disease [certain types of cancer].

"In some cancers, hyaluronic acid levels correlate well with malignancy and poor prognosis. It is important to note that the various types of molecules that interact with hyaluronan can contribute to many of the stages of cancer metastasis, i.e. further the spread of cancer. HA synthases (HAS) play roles in all of the stages of cancer metastasis. By producing anti-adhesive HA, HAS can allow tumor cells to release from the primary tumor mass, and if HA associates with receptors such as CD 44, the activation of Rho GT Pases can promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of the cancer cells.

During the processes of intravasation or extravasation, the interaction of HAS produced HA with receptors such as CD 44 or RHAMM promote the cell changes that allow for the cancer cells to infiltrate the vascular or lymphatic systems. While traveling in these systems, HA produced by HAS protects the cancer cell from physical damage. Finally, in the formation of a metastatic lesion, HAS produces HA to allow the cancer cell to interact with native cells at the secondary site and to produce a tumor for itself;"

(Bharadwaj AG, Kovar JL, Loughman E, Elowsky C, Oakley GG, Simpson MA (2009). "Spontaneous metastasis of prostate cancer is promoted by excess hyaluronan synthesis and processing". Am. J. Pathol. 174 (3): 1027–36. PMC 2665762 Freely accessible. PMID 19218337. doi:10.2353/ajpath.2009.080501) 

NUTRITION is the science of providing a mammals body the basic building blocks it needs in forms it can actually use, to help it function properly and to build the different tissues it needs to grow, heal, and survive.

The majority of non-traumatic joint problems can be addressed through proper nutritional support. In general, surgery is needed ONLY when a piece of the cartilage (the tissue that covers the ends of the bones in a joint) is loose and needs to be removed OR when the support structures (ligaments or tendons) are physically separated and need to be repaired or replaced. (The 'healing' period for most joint surgeries are many months, with a daily physical therapy routine required.)

Nutritional supplements can help the body fight back and heal itself by increasing the production of new tissues, in most other normal cases.

Over 90 years ago, it was found that, over time, eating ground up connective tissues could actually help relieve problems associated with arthritis. So, in the 1950's and 60's, people began to purposefully consume gelatin and cartilage (shark, chicken, bovine, or Perna muscle) and these helped some.

By the 1970's, scientists began really studying these 'ingredients' and creating actual products. They found, at that time, that the most helpful substances in them were chondroitin sulfates, or Type II Collagen. However, by the 1990's, radio tagging was cost effective, and it was quickly learned that most (over 70%) of these type of large, unrefined, 'nutrients' merely passed through the body, doing nothing.

About 60 years ago, the research began focusing in on a much smaller, more efficient nutrient, which is the most basic building block of connective tissues and fluids: Glucosamine Sulphate.

The scientific reality is that the proper nutritional supplements CAN help connective tissues grow and heal. There is little to wonder about, if a person actually takes the time to look at the real science behind the ingredients commonly used. The science exists, and has for decades. 

Many are truly a waste of money (or give false hope). Some actually do work - either as a pain killer or blocker, and others (fewer) as healing promotion, support, and building blocks. The truth is: there really is no 'magic bullet' oral supplement that does both (stop pain quickly & heal), and can cause a body to heal in hours, or even a few days. (As sad as that sounds). Any company claiming there is... either is purposefully lying to you (marketing around the truth), or just doesn't know any better.

People of all ages who are regularly working, training, exercising or competing, putting great stress on their joints, can use the additional support. Most athletes, parents and coaches take great care to protect the outside of a young adult's body to avoid injuries. The same care should be taken inside the joints, whether we are young or old. Joints can absolutely benefit from the right extra nutrients. If joint injury does occur, proper nutritional supplementation is definitely appropriate, if not more important. As a body ages, joints naturally wear out faster than they are repaired naturally, by the body... but only if the proper building blocks exist (either in the diet or supplementation).

Understand, contrary to the marketing hype... science has proven, that whole cartilage and its large components (chondroitin sulfates and collagen) can NOT be absorbed well by the body, though they are still the most popular components in most joint supplements on store shelves today. We believe this is because they are cheap ingredients, and easy to come by for most manufacturers. Crafty marketing, and hype saturation of bogus claims, offering the illusion of a quick fix in a bottle, over shadows the reality of science and common sense. 

While large molecules, such as these, can be injected and work very well when actually injected. Most people don't realize that, when taken orally, more than 70% of the chondroitin/collagen ingredients end up in the feces (poop), within 24 hours 100% of the time!

For many of the 'ingredients' on store shelves, the scientific reality of bio-availability (absorption), would kind of be like believing you can improve your vehicles mileage by having a gas can full of gas in the bed or trunk of your vehicle. With others, it's like thinking that pouring gas in the drivers seat will increase your mileage. (non-sense, and potentially dangerous); neither impacts the actual mileage, but there are claims, from '5-day cures' to 'liquid joint replacement' - and it's a JOKE! Just think about that for a moment. 

Chondroitin sulfate is large in size. 

In fact, some are 50 times larger than others. And the best is ten times, 50,000 Dalton's, larger than the largest size joint tissue is designed to absorb (5,000 Dalton's). Thereby, only 8-10% of the smallest ones have been shown to get from the gut into the blood intact (meaning about 90% passes through the body, never making it into the blood stream, the body's 'nutrient super highway').

What is eaten (or fed) must be broken down into smaller pieces by the gut, and the pieces that do actually get into the blood must be further broken down to get into the joints.

Another concern with these large-sized, mixed animal byproducts (chondroitin or collagen) is that they can also cause allergic responses. And yes, many serious allergic responses have been documented over the last century.

Lastly, regarding the chondroitin (and collagen) by-products, one should consider the source: where it came from, what type of by-products it came from (really), and how it was processed (manufactured). But, more importantly, WHERE it was actually manufactured can be even more vital to longevity, health, and safety.

Seriously, if 'we' can not safely drink the water in some areas, why would we want any supplements or ingredients in our supplements sourced in those very same industrial areas? Especially when it comes to communist and third world countries? Especially those that often have little to no safety standards, are riddled with unchecked heavy metals, and other common contaminants?

MD's Choice does not, and will not, use nutrients sourced from third world countries. In fact, all ingredients come from North America (USA, or Canada with certain Amino Acids).

The other extreme difference found in some supplements is the promotion of simple amino acids (A.A.'s). It's important to understand that amino acids are the basic building blocks of proteins; and, it is very important that the right amount of protein, from the proper sources, is in your food. However, simply providing extra of a particular A.A. (amino acid) does not mean that more connective tissue will be made, it's just one key part of the nutrition a mammals body requires for optimum health..

For example, let's say you ordered some boards to put a wall on a barn and, instead of boards, the lumber company delivered a load of acorns. When asked about the acorns, the deliveryman uses the reasoning that oak is the best type of wood for your job and that, someday, the acorns will grow into trees and can then be used for the lumber you need. Obviously, the acorns will not get your job done. Unfortunately, this failed logic has been applied to some joint supplements, with the same lack of results.

Further, ALL products that 'promise' (and 'claim') "Quick Results" might be experienced ARE DRUGS (or medicinal herbal plant derived drugs) OR LYING! If there really are 'quick' results, within hours or just a few days, then they are actually masking the symptoms, merely blocking pain, and are NOT A SOLUTION. In reality, those type of pain blockers  CAN ACTUALLY MAKE THINGS WORSE in time. The cause of the problem isn't being treated or addressed... and because the joints are still being used, often over used or abused, the problem grows. More, and often different, pain killers and masking agents become more necessary just to make it through the day (to the point of surgery or immobility). 

Awareness of your goal, expectation, and reality is important.

Fact - Glucosamine Sulphate is the basic building block of connective tissues and fluids. 

Studies have shown that when Glucosamine Sulphate is given orally, within 30 minutes, 87-97% is actively taken from the gut into the blood. Furthermore, within 4 hours, the chondrocytes (joint cells) have actively taken it from the blood.

When linked together with sulfur, chains of glucosamine become several different types of connective tissues and joint fluid. (A lack of sulfur will cause the production of connective tissues to stop .)

In addition, an enzyme can slightly change the shape of the glucosamine so that it is also the basic building block of the chondroitin sulfates.

Oral Glucosamine Sulphate has been scientifically shown to return people suffering from arthritis and osteo-arthritis to normal function within a few weeks to months (not a few days).

There are other types of glucosamine in different supplements, but they are not the same as Glucosamine Sulphate. Below are some facts about two other common forms of glucosamine that are used in some joint products (and shouldn't be - really; a result we've known since the 90's, but proven in the G.A.I.T. Study). . 

N-acetyl-glucosamine:

This type of glucosamine has been proven to have no active uptake from the gut.

REPEAT: "no active uptake from the gut" means doesn't leave the gut, unless USED BY THE GUT, until it's converted to urine or feces' (and expelled).

Many of the large budget marketing campaigns are written by the marketers, who don't have a clue about nutrition, absorption, bio-availability or effectiveness... and they are promoting a product with THIS FORM of glucosamine in their product, unaware that type does NOT MAKE IT TO THE JOINTS!

Most doctors are NOT nutritional specialists and only took one or two semesters of nutrition in college. 

Glucosamine HCl

There are no studies that show if Glucosamine HCl molecule is actively taken in from the gut or how much of it can actually gets into the body or the joints.

With that said, most studies testing the urine and feces for radio tagged product, show more than 50% of 'the best' glucosamine hcl passes through the system; and then, any found 'in' the body has to be combined with a sulpher source (like that from chondroitin). Understanding that whatever portion that does make it into the joints MUST undergo molecular changes before it can be used in connective tissues is vital to science (and reality).

The H.C.l. molecule MUST BE removed, and a sulphate added for that form of glucosamine to actually be used by a body.

(See note below.) Furthermore, Glucosamine HCl is not stable in liquids. Published experiments have shown that over half of the Glucosamine HCl added to a liquid solution will breakdown within 27 hours. Within 4 days, these new and different "breakdown products" form completely different molecules that were 20 times larger than what was originally in the solution. All of this often happens BEFORE the product leaves the manufacturer! So those people claiming 'liquid' is the best delivery method are ignoring the science of glucosamines sitting in liquid; which means they are either ignorant, or purposefully doing wrong. 

The doctors that started MD's Choice, and formulated the products, specialize in nutrition and preventative health for both human beings and animals for over 100 years of combined experience back in 1998. It's even more today! 

Educating others is still one of our core goals.

MSM is biologically active sulpher (Methyal-Sulphanal-Methane), the GRAS active metabolite of DMSO. 

(GRAS = Generally Recognized as Safe) The particular variety MD's Choice uses is based on 26 animal patents AND 26 human patents, for process, use, and function by the original 'inventor' Dr. Bergstrom, and his company Cardinal Nutrition, now Bergstrom Nutrition. They exclusively manufacture Opti-MSM in the USA. They have many long term studies, over the last 70+ years, on safety, effectiveness, use, lack of toxicity, and benefits to mammals (people and animals). Their process and formulation has been scientifically proven impossible for a mammal to overdose on.

The legal stuff.

What the body doesn't use of their MSM passes through. Their MSM is the ONLY type of MSM MD's Choice uses. 

There is no toxic build up, no known negative interaction with other medication or treatment. Other than it IS A CARRIER, and CAN HELP SOME MEDICATION BE MORE ACTIVELY AND READILY USED.

With that said, there are five other company's in the world which have attempted to copy the Opti MSM ~ one in Alabama, one in South America, two in China, another in some more remote third world country.

Just like pie's aren't the same: Apple isn't Pumpkin, isn't Lemon Meringue, and it isn't just food or desert, verses Mud... there are significant differences; far larger differences than what brand of gas you use in your vehicle, though the potential for worse 'longevity' because of contaminates or lack of quality absolutely exists in the nutritional ingredient world.

With nutrition the differences can be subtle, but incredibly significant! They go far beyond just 'taste,' or personal choices, but actually touch safety, absorption, effectiveness, longevity issues. Those differences are really more vital than just taste or smell; knowing what OTHER INGREDIENTS are used, what 'contaminates' might be included in the MSM (and other ingredients) that other companies make (and use), their purification process, as well as the testing and care behind their manufacturing process could mean years of added life, or even a shorter or more painful life. That is a reality most 'supplement' companies avoid discussing; especially if their product is sourced from China or some third world county.

HEAVY METALS MATTER! Even more so when combined with a biologically active carrier.  At least 4 of the M.S.M. manufacturers are in countries 'we' wouldn't want to drink their water, so the purity and contamination of other substances should be of concern, and a valid question

All of this was a serious concern the doctor's that founded MD's Choice seriously considered when selecting the form and type they use. The testing mattered, and knowing the specifics and ratios of all ingredients in the products is vital. Again, these 'other' forms of MSM, especially those created in other countries and shipped to the USA, should be a concern for consumers... and is a valid reason to ask questions:

WHERE DOES the M.S.M. used in your products come from?
Where were the RAW bulk ingredients originally manufactured?

MSM occurs naturally in all meats, fish, poultry, eggs, milk, dark green vegetables, kelp, and algae among others. It is also naturally and normally found in foods containing sulfur, which are include grains, legumes, fresh unprocessed vegetables like garlic, onions, cabbage, broccoli and brussels sprouts.

As of 2017, any American "supplement company" claiming THEY 'manufacture' 'their own' MSM is LYING! Because neither US manufacturer of MSM 'creates' their own line of mixed products (containing their MSM). They focus on the manufacturing of their bulk, raw MSM only. I've toured the Cardinal/Bergstrum plant many times, some as 'surprise visits,' and have consistently found their facilities cleaner than most hospital operating rooms!

Chinese-made MSM is not distilled, but uses a crystallization process that actually traps contaminants (away from the active ingredients). Either way, the cheap stuff suffers from lower purity levels, a higher presence of unwanted chemicals left from the manufacturing process, and a higher water content; all of which leads to a faster decomposition and increased contamination. They also frequently use lower quality raw materials to save costs. Chinese, and other third-world factories, undergo few (if any) health and safety inspections, and the safeguards are left up to the manufacturer (as there are no real 'regulations' or consistent applications to test for safety). They lack the “Good Manufacturing Practice” (cGMP) certifications that American manufacturers are obliged to. Why chance using their 'biological carrier' (MSM)? Didn't we learn enough from the lack of safety protocols in 2019? 

What was their MSM tested for?
Were the ingredients they are combining it with tested for?

MSM will carry stuff into the body... into the blood stream, what ever it's attached to... so making sure there are no heavy metals or other containments is vital. Responsible manufacturers will also seek third-party testing for their finished products. These safeguards will ensure that each batch made is put through extensive analytics to ensure the absence of lead, arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, mercury, and microbes.

For high quality MSM, there are four additional tests that establish purity, quality, melting point (important to verify quality), water content (low water content is essential for stability), and shelf life. That information isn't public knowledge... but key to the reason MD's Choice uses the Opti-MSM. 

People forget that herbs and spices CAN BE DANGEROUS... and really are "PLANT DERIVED DRUGS." 

Yes, while some may be common or seem harmless to most people, most of the time, some are really deadly. Some are just dangerous under certain circumstances, over certain amounts, or when over used, abused, or misused. While others are fine topically... but deadly if ingested. Some are ok for culinary use, in a light dusting, but not for supplementation of milligrams or grams.

While others can be deadly to people with blood pressure issues, heart concerns, kidney or liver issues, and others dangerous only to breeding or pregnant mammals (yes, that includes people).

If you are shopping for (or using) a joint supplement

you absolutely want "Glucosamine Sulphate" in that product, preferably the 2KCl (potassium) form

  • • Not Glucosamine HCl
  • • Not Chondroitin Sulphate
  • • No Herbs
  • • No Fillers
  • • Not some 'magic' ingredient

For more information on the MD’s Choice products, and other high quality supplements, which don’t use herbs or any of the unproven and often money wasting ingredients that only make a fraction of the possible difference, please visit www.MDsChoice.com

The MD's Choice joint supplements are purposefully not liquid... because of the reality of the science! Contrary to the marketing hype: Glucosamine is NOT STABLE in liquid!

MD's Choice's products provide the other necessary basic building blocks to target the joint tissue, in high concentration, in forms the body can use. They do not mask the symptoms or kill the pain. However, just like the rest of the body, joints need to be fed every day, preferably 2 or 3 times a day, not just once a day, or every 4 - 6 weeks. Remember, the fastest, most effective, and economical way to address serious joint and connective tissue problems is to start a high quality oral supplement BEFORE the problem exists.

Preventive measures can really help a body be its very best, for the longest time. As well as help in the event there is an injury, as you're already supplying key nutrients... just add more while healing, reduce again when you're back to normal. The MD's Choice joint formula actually helps improve the synovial fluids, but, more importantly, it also strengthens the ligaments and tendons (and all other connective tissue and soft tissues), and supplies the body (systemically) with basic building block nutrients required to help the body build healthy joint tissue, in forms the body can readily use. (Yes, that's a mouth full).

With the MD's Choice joint formula, the ingredients are generally absorbed into the blood stream within 30 to 45 minutes, and can be found in the actual joint tissue within 4 to 6 hours. That does not mean it's a 'quick fix' or relief will happen right away, it's nutrition - not a pain blocker or masker.

It means that the body is getting the basic building blocks it needs, in the forms it can use, so it can start healing faster, easier, and better than it would have without those extra nutrients. It means the pain will decrease and go away over time, as the healing occurs. In other words, the MD's Choice joint formula does a whole lot more (and better) than oral HA by itself. And, it is better for the body than symptom blockers and pain killers. However, because of the potential for pain blocking in some bodies, which oral HA has shown with some, a few customers have reported a faster positive impact when they used oral HA in conjunction with MD's Choice's joint supplement. Just don't over use the HA, and be aware of the potential issues it causes while blocking the pain. 

MD's Choice has purposefully and knowingly avoided adding any pain killers and symptom blockers to their products, with the firm scientific belief that any such masking agents do NOT belong in a DAILY SUPPLEMENT INTENDED FOR DAILY PROLONGED USE.

Like any 'pain killer' - IF a person is going to use oral H.A.. it should be limited, controlled, and only used as needed... when needed... and daily use for more than 2 to 4 weeks at a time should be avoided. 


MD's Choice has three primary joint supplements:

  1. Arthrosamine Capsules for people of all ages, and smaller bodies; often used for toy dogs & cats, especially any with beef allergies.
  2. Arthrosamine Beefy Chewables for dogs (perfect for those under 150 pounds, the powder is recommended for larger dogs, as well as those with 'beef liver' allergies)
  3. Gluquestrian - powder for horses, and body's over 200 pounds (Yes, people use the powder, mixed with a variety of liquids (it just has to be ingested the same day it's mixed)). It's also used for large dogs, and a variety of other mammals.

All Research and Information
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The legal mumbo jumbo: All information, graphics, and videos found on this site, and any sites directly linked from this site, are copyrighted and cannot be used commercially by any business, company, agency, or organization, without the express written permission of the respective holder. All rights reserved.

Science, especially nutrition, is a vital part of life... living... and longevity. Nothing on this website, or any other, should ever be given more power or authority than your actual doctor: that has seen the body, ran the tests, poked, prodded, x-rayed or ultra-sounded when necessary, thoroughly examined, and genuinely evaluated the history of the patient. Part of the reason the FDA has regulations and requirements, such as “These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.” is to help protect the consumer from false claims, 'magic cures,' 'miracle claims,' and dangerously avoidable contraindications (side-effects). We understand and agree! Drugs should have quality control regulations, safety requirements, and that includes ALL plant derived drugs (herbs) which have their place, but seldom ever in a 'daily supplement, intended for prolonged use.' Supplements should be tested for all the common contaminants, which MD's Choice has been doing since the very beginning.

Nutrition is key, good nutrition important, but even the best nutrition doesn't replace the hands on experience of doctors able to evaluate the individual body on a case-by-case basis. There are far too many ailments, types of diseases, genetic issues, contributing factors, and medical issues producing side-effects and symptoms for any responsible person - especially a doctor or healthcare related professional - to do more than generalize or suggest some elevated or minimized concern, without in-person testing and a real world exam. IF YOU HAVE A SERIOUS CONCERN, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR!

Our products are great, and have had the best Results Based Guarantee in the nutritional industry since 1995, which should tell you a lot about us. WE CARE... quality, education, and service are our primary goals. We aren't the cheapest, but we are the 'biggest bang for the buck.' The dosing of our products are FLEXIBLE, based on the LEVEL OF NEED - from prophylactic to maintenance, therapeutic to treatment level needs. 

If you have a serious concern, or life threatening situation, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR, or a specialist that can see the body, do the tests, and evaluate the individual situation.

Any products we have are considered the very best in their class... and all the key products have a Results Based Guarantee!

We help change the world, ONE BODY AT A TIME!

Arthrosamine: The Good, Bad, and Useless - 2026

Joint Anatomy & Science Graphics

Additional educational visuals for knee, cartilage, and related structures. Full video explainer is available on the Arthrosamine Comparison page.

Detailed knee joint

Healthy vs osteoarthritic knee

Articular cartilage structure

Research What Customers Say Arthrosamine Comparison FAQs MD's Choice HerbsAreDrugs VetSupplements

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. Consult your physician before use.

Copyright 1998 - 2026, Terry E. Mercer and MD's Choice, Inc., and respective holder(s)  - All Rights Reserved