Since it is a dietary supplement, there are no authoritative guidelines for chondroitin dosage. The standard chondroitin dosage is between 200 mg and 400 mg of chondroitin twice or three times per day for the treatment of osteoarthritis. In addition to treating arthritis, a standard chondroitin dosage may be beneficial in treating other conditions such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, heart disease, and anemia. Although this supplement has proven helpful in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, it has not been proven to be effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis or gouty arthritis.
Although chondroitin is generally well tolerated by most people, side effects may occur even at the standard chondroitin dosage. These can include pain in the upper part of the abdomen, nausea, diarrhea, and hair loss. In addition, constipation, swollen feet or ankles and a palpitations may occur. If side effects occur, a health care provider should be notified who can recommend an alternative treatment or plan of care.
It is recommended that chondroitin not be taken with aspirin or other blood thinners, unless recommended by the health care provider, because the combination can increase bleeding risks. It is important, however, that the health care provider be made aware of any over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications being taken, as these can also thin the blood.
Even though a prescription is not necessary to obtain chondroitin, the supplement is not necessarily safe to take during pregnancy or while breast feeding. Although studies have demonstrated that taking this supplement is generally safe to take for the majority of people, it is not known whether it's safe for people who are pregnant. Prior to taking chondroitin, the health care provider can explain risks, benefits, and alternatives to manage symptoms.
Since chondroitin overdoses are rare, effective treatment protocols have not been established. Emergency treatment, however, may include gastric lavage, or using a stomach pump and inducing vomiting. If an individual thinks that he may have consumed an excessive chondroitin dosage, he should seek emergency treatment.
Chondroitin is derived from animal cartilage and is typically combined with another dietary supplement called glucosamine. People who have certain allergies may not tolerate chondroitin and glucosamine supplements well, and those who have asthma should also avoid taking these supplements unless otherwise directed by their health care providers. In addition, chondroitin is not recommended for use in children, who may suffer from a form of arthritis known as juvenile arthritis.