Glucosamine + Shellfish Allergies = Trouble??? - Vitamins & Supplements Message Board

luke1 · 08-16-2003, 10:40 AM

My GP recommended Glucosamine/Chondroitin. I purchased the product and then I read the label. (And yes I know, measure twice cut once, but I am getting old.). I am allergic to shrimp and lobster, but not crab, clams, oysters, and fish. I also take 81mg aspirin 2x daily. The following is what I have found on the web:
Glucosamine supplements are derived from chitin (shellfish). People with allergies to shellfish should consult their doctor before taking glucosamine. Although most shellfish allergies are caused by proteins in shellfish and not chitin, a carbohydrate, an allergic shellfish reaction is one possible side effect of glucosamine
People using chondroitin sulfate in conjunction with blood-thinning medication or daily aspirin should have their blood clotting time checked more often. Chondroitin sulfate is similar in structure to the blood-thinning medications. The combination of chondroitin sulfate and blood-thinning medications can cause bleeding in some people.
Does anyone have a similar situation? Comments would be appreciated. Thanks!

Kre · 08-25-2003, 07:48 PM

Since the doctor suggested you take this, check with him again regarding your allergy to shrimp, etc. He probably did not know you had an allergy problem.

Always a good idea to double check.

Getting old is no reason to take something you might be allergic to.

If you have diabetes, be sure and keep close watch on blood sugars to determine if the glucosamine is elevating it too much or not.

peregrine · 08-26-2003, 05:01 AM

Glucosomine/Chrondroiton is one of those products that is popular for its touting of muscle and joint pain relief, etc. so it is widely used. My understanding is that it can also stress the liver. If you don't have any liver issues and it is helping you than it is probably fine. I found that over time it exacerbated other problems I had. I agree that it would probably be wise to alert your doctor to your allergies before using it.

Peregrine

[This message has been edited by peregrine (edited 08-26-2003).]