Conclusion
This report raises the possibility of a link between asthma exacerbation and a popular dietary substance. Glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate preparations are dietary supplements widely used by patients who have degenerative arthritis. The potential side effects of this medication are unknown. Asthma is a widespread condition affecting many, including persons with arthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin have been linked to atopy and the respiratory tract secretions of asthmatic patients. Physicians would be wise to question their patients about use of dietary supplements as self-medication and consider the possibility of such supplements causing exacerbations of underlying conditions.
Address reprint requests to Alfred F. Tallia, MD, MPH, Department of Family Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 1 Robert Wood Johnson Place, MEB 288, New Brunswick, NJ 08903-0019.
J Am Board Fam Med. 2002;15(6) © 2002 American Board of Family Medicine
Cite this: Asthma Exacerbation Associated With Glucosamine-Chondroitin Supplement - Medscape - Nov 01, 2002.
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