Three studies showed glucosamine reduced osteoarthritis symptoms like pain and stiffness better than placebo. However, the researchers found serious design flaws in all three studies that make it impossible to confidently say whether glucosamine actually works or if results were just placebo effect.

This was a literature review examining glucosamine research published between 1965-1997. The authors only included studies that were properly randomized, had control groups, and clearly reported their methods and results.

Funding not disclosed in abstract