GLUTEK TABLETS 500/400mg Tablets

Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural building blocks of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the joints. This combination is taken to ease the pain and stiffness of mild to moderate osteoarthritis, especially in the knee.

Research results are mixed. Some studies show modest benefit from each ingredient, but it is still unclear how well they work, and some guidelines do not recommend them.

Take it as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.

• Swallow the tablets whole with water, with or without food.
• It is not for sudden, severe pain. Relief may take several weeks.
• If there is no benefit after 2 to 3 months, ask your doctor whether to continue.
• If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose.

Common side effects include:

• headache or tiredness
• feeling sick, indigestion or stomach pain
• diarrhoea, constipation or wind

Less often: rash, itching or flushing.

Stop taking it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• swelling of the face, tongue or throat, difficulty swallowing, or hives with breathing problems
• worsening asthma
• yellow skin or eyes

Do not take it if you are allergic to shellfish, as glucosamine is often made from shellfish.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist first if you:

• take warfarin or another blood thinner
• have diabetes or raised blood sugar
• have asthma, high cholesterol or heart disease risk
• have kidney or liver problems
• have hot, red or swollen joints, which may need other tests

Store in the original pack to protect from moisture, out of the sight and reach of children.

Blood thinners: glucosamine and chondroitin have been linked to a higher risk of bleeding with warfarin. Your blood tests may need extra checks when you start or stop.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: glucosamine is not recommended, and safety is not well known.

Children: not recommended under 18.

Driving: do not drive if it makes you dizzy or drowsy.