Overall, the efficacy of glucosamine in treating osteoarthritis remains unclear.

The most recent data  suggests glucosamine is NOT better than placebo at alleviating pain associated with osteoarthritis.

For those people with moderate to severe pain, glucosamine may provide some relief.

There are several studies which suggest that glucosamine has biochemical properties that may slow the progression of osteoarthritis, but this has not been clearly demonstrated in people.

More vigorous research needs to be done to determine whether glucosamine is in fact a disease modifying drug.  Studies should also question whether the route of administration and dosage affect the clinical effect.  Additionally, researchers should continue to investigate the mechanism of action of glucosamine in vivo.  The long term safety of glucosamine also needs to be established.  It may also be interesting to see whether glucosamine has any affect on inflammatory arthritis.

Individuals should contact their health care provider before taking glucosamine.