Posted on July 24, 2002 at 4:38 p.m.

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is participating in a national study to determine if the dietary supplements glucosamine and chondroitin may be effective in treating osteoarthritis of the knee. “The two supplements have been widely marketed as effective remedies for osteoarthritis, but it has not been proven whether these drugs work,” says Dr. Larry Moreland, professor of medicine with the Division of Immunology and Rheumatology at UAB.

The multi-center study, called the Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), is the first in the United States to investigate the two drugs. UAB is one of 13 centers participating in the study. “We will look at whether the drugs help with signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and if they are effective in slowing the progression of the disease,” says Moreland.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting more than 20 million Americans, according to the Arthritis Foundation. It is caused by the breakdown and loss of cartilage, the “cushion” between the joints and bones. It most often affects weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees, and is characterized by pain, stiffness, limited motion and inflammation.

Nationally, 1,588 people will be enrolled in the study. UAB is recruiting 113. Men and women who are at least 40 years old and who have had osteoarthritis of the knee for at least six months are eligible to participate. Following an initial screening, those enrolled in the study will receive one or both study drugs, a placebo or a conventional therapy for six months. Participants will visit the clinic six times over the course of the study for exams and knee x-rays.

The $14 million study is funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in collaboration with the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Those interested in participating in the study may contact Keslie Woods, project coordinator, at (205) 934-9851.