Medications: glucosamine and chondroitin

One of the best answers to this question is found on the site of Dr David Nelson, a San Francisco Hand Surgeon. I agree with what he says on his page.

Do these help as the directions say to take 3 a day i am somewhat leary please advise as soon as possible thank you

The latest thing is Deer Antler preperation. Apparently the active ingredient has been identified as a gene which is switched on in antler cartilage. This gene makes the cartilage grow and forms the antler.

Apparently humans have the above gene switched on in the fetus. From what I read a medication may be available within two years time (adding clinical trials that probably means 7 years!).

You can buy deer antler preperations from health food stores but I don't know if they work or not.

My girlfriend who is a Nurse also says that to get the gene into the cartilage it needs to be attached to a virus. However Deer Antler has been used in Chinese medicine for many centuries and has reportedly positive effects and not just placebo.

PS I am an Engineer not a Doctor/Chemist. 23 Feb 2003

It is 12 April today. I tried the Deer Antler preparation from the Health Food shop. It made no difference at all, so save your money!