Generic name: chondroitin [ KON-droy-tin ]
Brand name: OptiFlex-C
Dosage form: oral capsule (400 mg)
Drug class: Nutraceutical products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 15, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is chondroitin?

Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance formed of sugar chains. Chondroitin is believed to help the body maintain fluid and flexibility in the joints.

Chondroitin has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating osteoarthritis pain.

Other uses not proven with research have included treating cataracts, bladder problems, heart disease, or osteoporosis.

Chondroitin may have been combined with other plants or extracts in a specific preparation to treat these conditions.

It is not certain whether chondroitin is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Chondroitin should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Chondroitin is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Chondroitin may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Chondroitin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, chondroitin is thought to be possibly safe when taken for up to 6 years.

Stop using chondroitin and call your healthcare provider at once if you have:

• irregular heartbeats; or

• swelling in your legs.

Common side effects of chondroitin may include:

• nausea, diarrhea, constipation;

• mild stomach pain;

• hair loss; or

• puffy eyelids.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

prednisone, ibuprofen, aspirin, meloxicam, naproxen, Cymbalta

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this product if you are allergic to chondroitin.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• asthma;

• prostate cancer; or

• bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia.

It is not known whether chondroitin will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.

Chondroitin may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

How should I take chondroitin?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use chondroitin, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different formulations of chondroitin at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of chondroitin.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with chondroitin does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra chondroitin to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking chondroitin?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect chondroitin?

Do not take chondroitin without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with chondroitin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

Further information

• Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01.