Also known as glucosamine, glucosamine is a natural component of healthy cartilage. Its popularity and proven effectiveness for the short-term treatment of pain caused by arthritis should not obscure the fact that it can have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system.
Side Effects of Glucosamine on Blood Pressure
Formulas
Although quality and content vary widely, dietary supplements usually provide glucosamine in the form of glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride.
Cardiovascular side effects
The Mayo Clinic website reports that glucosamine products can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate, in addition to causing heart palpitations.
Duration of Effects
The Mayo Clinic indicates that glucosamine’s hypertensive effects are temporary. Therefore, blood pressure returns to previous levels after supplements are no longer consumed.
Glucosamine sulfate
The Arthritis and Glucosamine Information Center advise that glucosamine sulfate supplements often contain potassium chloride or sodium chloride, which are salts. According to the Cleveland Clinic, excessive sodium intake can result in high blood pressure.
Glucosamine hydrochloride
The “WebMD” website does not list high blood pressure as a potential side effect of glucosamine hydrochloride.
Considerations
The ingredients of a glucosamine product appear to determine its specific effect on blood pressure. Also, according to the National Library of Medicine website, people allergic to shellfish or iodine should not consume glucosamine supplements.