A Randomised, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial of a Topical Cream containing Glucosamine Sulfate Chondroitin Sulfate and Camphor for Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Cohen, M. . Journal of Rheumatology, Authors Reply. 31 (4):826-827, 2004
ABSTRACT
Objective.
To assess the ability of a topical preparation of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate to reduce pain related to osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.
Methods.
Sixty-three patients were randomized to receive either a topical glucosamine and chondroitin preparation or placebo to be used as required over an 8 week period. Efficacy was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain as well as the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and the SF-36 questionnaire.
Results.
VAS scores indicated a greater mean reduction in pain for the glucosamine/chondroitin preparation group (mean change –3.4 cm, SD 2.6 cm) compared to the placebo group (mean change –1.6 cm, SD 2.7 cm) after 8 weeks.
After 4 weeks the difference between active and placebo groups in their mean reduction from baseline was 1.2 (95% CI 0.1 to 2.4, p = 0.03) and after 8 weeks was 1.8 (95% CI for difference between groups, 0.6 to 2.9 cm; p = 0.002).
Conclusion.
Topical application of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is effective in relieving the pain from OA of the knee and improvement is evident within 4 weeks. (J Rheumatol 2003;30:523–8)