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Glucosamine OA NICE — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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EasyOsteoarthritisGlucosamine OA NICESCE Rheumatology

A 55-year-old woman with knee osteoarthritis has taken glucosamine for 6 months without symptomatic benefit. She asks whether she should continue it. According to current NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate advice?

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Correct answer: C — Discontinue it because there is no strong evidence of benefit

NICE NG226 advises that glucosamine should not be offered to manage osteoarthritis and that patients asking about it should be told there is no strong evidence of benefit. NICE found inconsistent evidence, with larger apparent effects arising mainly from smaller, lower-quality studies. Continuing for longer, increasing the dose or treating an over-the-counter product differently is therefore unsupported. Glucosamine is not first-line pharmacological management: core treatment comprises tailored therapeutic exercise, information and support, and weight management where appropriate. If medication is needed, NICE recommends a topical NSAID for knee osteoarthritis, subject to individual suitability.

Reference: NICE. Osteoarthritis in over 16s: diagnosis and management (NG226), recommendations 1.4.6–1.4.7. 2022. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng226/chapter/Recommendations