Glucosamine ; Sulphate vs Hydrochloride
Glucosamine is a supplement that is taken widely in orthopedic case especially osteoarthritis patient. The supplementation of glucosamine is believed to help and enhances human body in producing and manufacture collagen and proteoglycan[1]. This two major components are essential in rebuilding joints and synovial fluid that helps lubricating the joints.
Currently there are two kind of glucosamine that we can fine in the market. There are Glucosamine Sulphate and Glucosamine Hydrochloride. These types of glucosamine are actually bonded to these salts which act as a carrier. Pure glucosamine itself is highly hygroscopic and can degrade easily when it exposed to moisture or air1. When it is bind to these salts, glucosamine become more stable and can’t degrade easily.
When it is consume, the salt-binding glucosamine will be break down by the acidity condition in the stomach and the pure glucosamine will be absorbed in the small intestine[2]. Researchers claim that only glucosamine is essential and give the relative benefit for the osteoarthritis patient no matter its salt-binding form.
In terms of price, there will be a slight higher in the sulphate form compared to the hydrochloride2. This is because the sulphate form needs about 20% by weight additional of sodium or potassium chloride to help in maintaining stability and also diluting the sulphate2. On the other hand, the glucosamine hydrochloride can provide high purity to be readily absorbed. Therefore it is the most cost effective salt-binding form.
The following table will explain more on some comparative values between these two salts :
| Comparative Values | Glucosamine Hydrochloride | Glucosamine Sulphate + NaCL / KCL |
| Purity (as the specific salt) | 99% | 80% |
| Bio-active Glucosamine (as a free base) | 83.1% | 62.8% |
| Equivalent Dosage | 1,500 mg | 1,995 mg |
