Glucosamine + Chondroitin sulfate

General Description: Glucosamine and chondroitin has been prescribed to give your pet the building blocks necessary to repair damaged joint cartilage. As well, the anti-inflammatory properties of the ingredients will gradually build up to help support joint health in your pet. This product may be used in combination with others to achieve good results for arthritic pets. This product has also been used to treat cancer pain and may be of benefit in the treatment of lower urinary tract disease in cats. Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate is available in tablets, capsules, powders and oral liquids.

What is this drug?

Cartilage components harvested mainly from shellfish, but also from shark skeleton and cattle
A nutraceutical (a nutrient with medicinal properties) with slow acting effects (weeks to months)
Basic starting level for joint care
Given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:

To improve joint function and help with pain relief in arthritic dogs and cats
May be used in the treatment of lower urinary tract disease in cats
May be used to treat cancer pain
May be used in combination with NSAIDs or other drugs
Not helpful in joint disease involving the vertebrae and intervertebral discs
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?

Safety in pregnant and nursing animals is unknown
Use with caution in pets with asthma (human patients report increased asthma symptoms)
If your pet has had an earlier allergic reaction to Glucosamine and/or Chondroitin sulfate
Directions:

Read and follow the label carefully.

These products do not produce rapid results, but need one to two months to build up within the body.

Products vary greatly. Dosage experimentation may be necessary with the help of your veterinarian. Typically the pet starts therapy at a high dose and once effects have been noticed, the dose is reduced to a maintenance level.

It is usually given once a day and is usually used for the life of the pet.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate may be given with or without food.

Arthritic pets also benefit from weight control, proper exercise and physical therapy.

Nutraceuticals are not regulated by the FDA. As such, they have not been required to go through the same rigorous testing for efficacy that drugs undergo. Many products on the market are high quality and are made by reputable companies. Consult with your veterinarian to choose a sound product for your pet.

What if a dose is missed?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.

What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?

Talk to your veterinarian about:

When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
What are the risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:

If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medicines can be given together.
If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:

Store in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.

Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.

Potential side effects:

These products are usually well tolerated
Clinically insignificant decrease in platelet function (blood clotting)
Stomach upset is possible, but are usually mild and include flatulence and soft bowel movements
High doses could enhance effects of anticoagulants
If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian
Can this drug be given with other drugs?

Yes, but interactions may occur with anticoagulants, aspirin, doxorubicin, etoposide, phenylbutazone or other drugs that influence platelet function.
If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian.
Overdosing?

If your pet receives more than the prescribed amount, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What else should I know?

Notify your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

As with all prescribed medicines, Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.

This is just a summary of information about Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate. If you have any questions or concerns about Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate or the condition it was prescribed for, contact your veterinarian.

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