Best Glucosamine Supplement Brands Today

The article is divided into three sections - 1) Review of best Glucosamine supplement / brands, 2) research-backed Glucosamine health benefits, precautions, dosage and lastly 3) FAQs.

What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is an amino sugar synthesized within the body. Glucosamine is made up of glucose and amino acid, glutamine.

It is known to be a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, which reduces the severity of the inflammation and also alleviates various inflammatory symptoms like pain, swelling, and redness.

For these reasons it widely used as a treatment for osteoarthritis and various other joint inflammatory disorders.

A good number of scientific studies have shown that glucosamine not only helps in alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis but also delays the progression of the disease.

It is also said to possess strong wound healing properties along with anti-aging benefits.

Glucosamine is largely used in combination with another joint supplement, chondroitin.

Studies conducted on this combination have shown that these two can help in relieving the pain, improving the physical function and have an effect on the stiffness, which is one of the classic symptoms of osteoarthritis. [1]

Different Forms of Glucosamine

Based on the origin, glucosamine can be categorized into two types, namely, shellfish glucosamine and non-shellfish/vegetarian glucosamine.

Shellfish glucosamine is obtained by chitin processing from the shells of crustaceans like shrimps, crabs, and lobsters.

On the other hand, non-shellfish glucosamine is manufactured from corn fermentation and Aspergillus niger. Non-shellfish glucosamine serves as an alternative for vegetarians and vegans.

Based on the salt form, glucosamine can be categories into two types, which are glucosamine sulphate and glucosamine hydrochloride.

Of all these forms glucosamine sulphate is broadly used and is backed by a good number of scientific studies.

Glucosamine sulphate is stabilized by salt and this compound is of 74% purity. On the other hand, glucosamine hydrochloride is of 99% purity.

Both glucosamine sulphate and glucosamine hydrochloride are proven to be effective in alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis. [2]

Glucosamine: Mechanism of Action

Glucosamine’s exact mechanism of action is not known.

However, a few studies conducted in recent years have elucidated the glucosamine’s action mechanism to a certain extent.

Glucosamine acts as a component of glycosaminoglycans, which in turn is the key constituent of cartilage.

Glucosamine possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties. Glucosamine is proven to reduce the levels of inflammatory biomarkers like prostaglandin-E2, interleukin(IL)-8, etc., and biomarkers for collagen and cartilage degeneration and thereby delay the progression of inflammation, bring down the severity of the symptoms and improve the joint functions [3]

The chondroprotective action of glucosamine comes from its ability to delay the catabolic or degenerative processes that are triggered by the inflammation in the cartilage. [4]

Top Glucosamine Supplements Comparison

Here is a quick comparison of the top Glucosamine supplement brands available in the market today -

Reviews of the Best Glucosamine Supplements

Here are the Reviews for the Best Glucosamine Capsules available in Market

Vimerson Health Glucosamine Chondroitin Turmeric 90 Capsules

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Vimerson Health aims to help people on their journey to a healthier lifestyle, by providing safe, natural supplements that complement the efforts put into nutrition and exercise.

Their products are made in FDA-approved facilities here in the US.

Vimerson Health glucosamine supplement is everything you are going to need to ease joint pain discomfort and inflammation.

It is a powerful blend of glucosamine, turmeric, and MSM, packaged in easy-to-take capsules.

Free of GMOs, gluten, cholesterol, preservatives, and artificial ingredients, this formula provides ultra flex joint support and promotes cartilage health.

It enhances joint mobility, improves flexibility while reducing inflammation around the connective tissues.

It comes with a full refund guarantee in case you are not 100 percent satisfied with the product.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

BioSchwartz Glucosamine Chondroitin Turmeric MSM Capsules

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Based in Orlando, Florida, BioSchwartz is on a mission to help provide health-conscious people all around the world with a wide range of premium-quality dietary supplements without expensive price tags.

BioSchwartz glucosamine is a go-to, inexpensive choice for anyone looking to prevent joint pain from keeping them out of shape.

Each veggie capsule contains glutamine, turmeric, MSM and fruitex-B, clinically-proven to help build cartilage, relieve joint discomfort and reduce inflammation in no time.

This supplement also boosts collagen production and supports the flexibility and mobility of the joints.

It is devoid of gluten, fillers, binders, artificial chemicals, and GMO ingredients and is good for people of all fitness levels or ages. It is proudly produced in the United States.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

ZenWise Health Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulphate Curcumin Tablets

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ZenWise Health is a trusted supplement brand that aims to facilitate your journey to a healthier and active lifestyle by providing the most effective solutions and natural products money can buy.

Get ZenWise Health glucosamine tablets for extra strength joint care. It is a unique blend of ingredients that can help people with joint-related aches and discomfort.

The pill contains glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane).

And it is enhanced with curcumin, a special type of turmeric that improves mobility and flexibility at the bones’ meeting points.

This hip and joint formula also helps build cartilage and boosts collagen production.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Vimerson Health Glucosamine Kava Kava Ginger Bioperine Capsules

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This is another good quality glucosamine supplement from Vimerson Health.

It is a powerful combination of ingredients such as glucosamine, ginger, Kava Kava and Bioperine for optimal absorption and bioavailability.

It is 100-percent natural, containing zero fillers, binders, gluten, GMOs, or additives.

These capsules alleviate joint pain, reduce soreness, boost the immune system and help the body to recover after injuries, among other health benefits.

There are 60 vegetarian-friendly pills in a bottle.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Amazing Nutrition Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Capsules

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Amazing Nutrition is owned by Good Brands LLC, a nutraceutical company established in 2014.

The company brings to you a comprehensive range of products that can help you achieve your health goals.

Three joint health improving ingredients combine in this formula from Amazing Nutrition. These include chondroitin sulfate, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) and glucosamine.

The powerful, synergistic blend takes away joint pain and discomfort, helps build cartilage, and improves joint mobility while fighting free radicals in the body.

A bottle houses 240 easy-to-take pills, enough for a 120-day supply.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Zenesis Labs Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Capsules

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Zenesis Labs knows what’s what in the dietary supplement world. The customer-first company has an extensive line of top grade natural products, including vitamins, minerals, among others.

Zenesis Labs glucosamine capsule is the Holy Grail for joint pain relief. It contains a high dose of chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, and MSM, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

This supplement gets rid of joint-related aches and discomfort, supports cartilage health while boosting immune functions.

It is devoid of GMOs, fillers or binders and comes with 110 percent Lifetime guarantee if unsatisfied with the product for any reason.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

MAV Nutrition Extra Strength Glucosamine Sulfate 500mg Tablets

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MAV nutrition wants to help you on your way to good health and happiness. They offer a comprehensive range of products that defy the body’s natural aging process and revitalize your mind.

MAV Nutrition glucosamine tablets provide an easy and effective way to support the joints.

Each tablet delivers 500mg of glucosamine and some minerals that improve flexibility and mobility at the meeting points of bones.

This formula supports cartilage health, prevents wear and tear of the joints, while relieving pain and inflammation.

The product carries a 100-percent guarantee for unhappy buyers – no questions asked.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Healthzone Naturals Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Capsules

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Healthzone Naturals is a leading nutrition company founded by Steve Harris in 2013.

The company manufactures its products in an FDA-approved facility located in Bangor, Maine, United States.

This Healthzone Naturals formula provides a maximum dose of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM for excellent joint pain relief.

It helps lubricate the joints and get you moving around with no discomfort or aches. The supplement also helps fight off free radicals and supports cartilage health.

It comes in small-sized capsules that are a cinch to swallow and is backed with a hassle-free, money-back guarantee.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Bulk Supplements Glucosamine HCL Powder

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Bulk Supplements needs no introduction. Operating from Henderson, Nevada, the nutrition company offers as many as 400 effective products that can jump-start the journey of people to a healthier lifestyle.

Bulk Supplements offers premium-quality glucosamine supplement that works. Available in easy-to-digest powdery form, this unique formula helps prevent stiffness and enhances joint flexibility.

Glucosamine helps lubricate the meeting points of bones, allowing you to move around with no pain or discomfort.

It is clean, effective and pure, containing zero fillers, GMO ingredients or additives.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Tropical Oasis Joint Complete Premium –Liquid

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Tropical Oasis is a nutrition company based in Carrollton, Texas.

They have a wide range of products that promote a healthy lifestyle, such as vitamins, minerals, and supplements, etc. in a liquid form.

This liquid joint supplement takes away the difficulty of swallowing a big-size glucosamine pill.

A lubricant for the joints, the unique formula contains glucosamine, chondroitin, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and MSM, known for its excellent anti-inflammatory activities.

It helps prevent cartilage deterioration, relieves pain and discomfort, and enhances joint flexibility.

The supplement has a faster absorption rate and therefore provides pain relief in no time. It comes with a 30-day, money-back guarantee for unhappy buyers.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Schiff Glucosamine Vitamin D3 Hyaluronic Acid Tablets

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Founded way back in 1936, Schiff is no stranger in the supplement industry. The company has a large collection of effective and affordable products, which includes probiotics, vitamins, minerals, etc.

Schiff glucosamine is one of the best available in the marketplace.

This highly-potent formula contains glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin D3 which supports strong and healthy bones.

Taken once per day, the supplement can help maintain the functions and structures of the cartilage in the joints.

It relieves pain and prevents the stiffening of the joints by lubricating the points where bones meet. It comes in Sure Dissolves tablets that disintegrate within an hour.

Pros and Cons

Doctor’s Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Capsules

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Doctor’s best is a nutrition company founded by a physician in 1990.

They offer more than 200 products, made with branded ingredients that go through rigorous testing for purity and quality.

These capsules contain three importance ingredients, namely glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM that help maintain healthy joints.

It lubricates the points of articulation of bones, promoting optimal joint mobility and flexibility.

It also serves as a shock absorber and helps combat free radicals. Each serving delivers a high dose of these natural ingredients, free of gluten, GMOs, fillers or additives.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

VitaBreeze Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Turmeric Capsules

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VitaBreeze is a manufacturer of good-quality supplements based in Orlando, Florida.

The nutraceutical company is on a mission to help you live an enjoyable, happier and healthier life.

VitaBreeze glucosamine capsule is one of the most effective supplements for joint pain relief.

It is made of carefully selected ingredients such as glucosamine, turmeric, chondroitin and MSM that promotes healthy joints.

It takes away the pain and improves joint flexibility, enabling you to move around with ease and comfort.

It also helps build cartilage and vital proteins such as collagen and elastin.

This formula is devoid of GMO ingredients, gluten, or common allergens and comes in easy-to-take veggie capsules.

Key constituents of the supplements –

Pros and Cons

Key Health Benefits of Glucosamine

Glucosamine is popularly known as a joint supplement due to its positive impact on the symptomatic and structure outcome of joint inflammation. It is found to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Glucosamine is also said to have an active role in reducing collagen/cartilage degeneration and soothing the inflammatory symptoms like tenderness, swelling, and pain.

1. Glucosamine Helps In Delaying The Progression Of Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is a joint degenerative disease caused due to the breakdown of joint cartilage.

Learn more about osteoarthritis here:

As a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, glucosamine helps in delaying the progression of osteoarthritis by reducing the cartilage degeneration.

Glucosamine works on the inflammation by reducing Interleukin-1-stimulated catabolic enzymes and inflammatory markers that are responsible for cartilage breakdown and inflammatory reactions like pain, edema, and redness. [1]

Confidence Level: High

A study conducted in 2012, has shown that glucosamine serves as a disease-modifying agent with a carryover effect.

Glucosamine was reported to improve conditions like pain, stiffness and physical functions.

It was also concluded that long term usage of glucosamine could help in reducing the dependence on NSAIDs and delaying the progression of osteoarthritis. [2]

A study conducted in 2001 on the long-term effects of glucosamine sulphate on OA progression has shown that glucosamine could effectively reduce the joint space loss in patients with low-grade osteoarthritis.

It was a 3-year randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial which involved 212 knee osteoarthritis patients. [3]

In a 1998 study, a daily dose of 1500mg/day glucosamine for a month was reported to have shown the same results as ibuprofen in 170 Chinese patients, only with lesser side effects. [4]

Several other studies conducted on glucosamine’s efficacy have proved that glucosamine could be a safer treatment option for osteoarthritis over NSAIDs. [5] [6] [7] [8]

2. Glucosamine Reduces The Joint Pain And Tenderness

Joint pain and tenderness are the key symptoms of inflammation. Regular usage of glucosamine has proven to help in reducing the severe pain and improve the joint function.

Confidence Level: High

A double-blind randomized clinical trial study conducted in 2012, has shown that glucosamine in combination with alendronate helps in relieving pain and stiffness and improving the joint functions in Degenerative Joint Disease at a faster rate. [9]

A three-year study that involved 202 patients has shown that 1500mg of glucosamine once daily, can reduce the pain and have a positive impact on the joint functions. [10]

Multiple studies have been conducted on glucosamine’s impact on pain, tenderness and joint functions in osteoarthritis patients and a majority of the studies have reported that glucosamine is an effective form of treatment for the above-mentioned conditions with least side effects. [11] [12] [13] [14]

3. Glucosamine Helps Relieve Temporomandibular Joint(TMJ) Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Various body parts like wrist, shoulder, ankle, and TMJ are affected by osteoarthritis. TMG osteoarthritis is said to damage the cartilage, synovial, and many surrounding tissues. Glucosamine might help the condition by reducing the pain and improving the joint function. [15]

Confidence Level: Moderate

In a randomized double-blind controlled study conducted in 2001, the efficacies of glucosamine (1500mg/day) and ibuprofen (1200mg/day) were evaluated against TMJ osteoarthritis. Both glucosamine and ibuprofen reduced the pain; however, glucosamine had a greater influence on pain alleviation and joint functions. [16]

4. Glucosamine Helps In Alleviating The Symptoms Of Kashin-Beck Disease

Kashin-Beck Disease that is predominant in north-eastern and south-western parts of China, is a degenerative bone disease, which is characterized by cartilage breakdown similar to osteoarthritis. Therefore, treatment with glucosamine may help in improving the motility and reducing the pain associated with the inflammation.

Confidence Level: Moderate

In 2012, 251 patients with KBD were subjected to a cluster-randomized, placebo-controlled trial wherein they were treated with glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine hydrochloride-chondroitin sulfate combination, and placebo.

After 6 months, it was observed that the combination of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate was more effective in reducing the pain and stiffness than placebo alone. [17]

Another study conducted in 2012, which involved 183 adult KBD patients showed that a daily dose of 1500mg of glucosamine for 6 weeks was helpful in reducing pain and improving physical functions.

The performance of glucosamine was comparable with that of Diclofenac and Naproxen. [18]

In 2010, a study involved 80 adult patients aged over 40 years, who were randomly categorized into two groups.

One group received a 1600mg oral mixture of glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate and the other received placebo, daily twice for a period of 8 months.

Narrowing of knee joint space was rather slow in the experimental group when compared to the controlled group. This implies that this combination can help in protecting the articular cartilage layer. [19]

5. Glucosamine is Helpful in Decreasing Collagen Degradation

Collagen degradation is caused due to inflammation and treating it with anti-inflammatory agents like glucosamine can help in reducing the severity of the damage. Glucosamine brings down collagen degradation by blocking lipid peroxidation reaction and oxidation of collagen matrix. [20]

Confidence Level: Moderate

In 2009, there was a study carried out which involved the evaluation of glucosamine's impact on the articular cartilage of athletes, whose joints are exposed to high levels of biomarkers for type II collagen degradation(CTX-II) and type II collagen synthesis (CPII).

The subjects were administered with 1.5g- 3g glucosamine daily for three months. After 3 months, it was observed that the levels of CTX-II had reduced. [21]

In 2013, 25 cyclists were chosen to study the impact of glucosamine on cartilage and bone metabolism. It was reported that 1.5g-3g of glucosamine exhibited chondroprotective action by reducing type II collagen degradation. [22]

6. Glucosamine Possesses Anti-Aging Properties

Glucosamine is necessary for the biosynthesis of hyaluronate, proteoglycans, glycoproteins and various other connective tissues that are responsible for the healthy skin structure.

Glucosamine can also have an impact on the skin's moisture content, wound healing properties and the appearance of the wrinkles. Glucosamine is also found to be helpful in addressing hyperpigmentation.

Confidence Level: Moderate

In 2017, a study was conducted in order to analyze the impact of glucosamine on skin aging. 8 healthy women who were less than 50 years old, were given 250mg glucosamine orally for 8 weeks.

After 8 weeks, it was observed that glucosamine had a positive effect on both the epidermal and dermal factors that were associated with aging. [23]

A 2006 study had reported that due to glucosamine's ability to stimulate the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, the former can speed up the wound healing process, impact the skin's moisture content and help in reducing the visibility of wrinkles.

As a tyrosinase inhibitor, glucosamine can also help in addressing skin pigmentation disorders. [24]

7. Glucosamine Helps in Reducing The Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that damages the joints and spreads to other parts of the body. The severity of rheumatoid arthritis can be brought down with glucosamine administration.

Confidence Level: Moderate

In a 2007 study which involved 51 patients, 25 were treated with 1500mg glucosamine hydrochloride and remaining with placebo.

After 12 weeks, noticeable improvements were observed in the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. [25]

Animal studies have shown that glucosamine in combination with other biomolecules like N-acetyl glucosamine and vitamin E can suppress the inflammation and improve the functioning of the joints. [26] [27]

8. Glucosamine Positively Impacts The Cardiac Functions

Glucosamine may be helpful in improving cardiovascular health by reducing the inflammation in the blood vessels and promoting healthy cardiac functions.

Confidence Level: Low

Studies have shown that glucosamine may help in preventing inflammation in the blood vessels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis [28] [29] and balance the calcium levels in the cardiac cells and protect them against damage. [30] [31] [32]

9. Glucosamine helps in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a disorder that arises due to glycosaminoglycan deficiency. Continued inflammation leads to erosions, swelling, and shortening of the intestinal glands. Glucosamine, being a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, can help in suppressing the inflammation and stabilizing the condition.

Confidence Level: Low

In a 2014 animal study, it was observed that, when mice with inflammatory bowel syndrome were treated with glucosamine oligosaccharides (chitooligosaccharides), the erosion and swelling had reduced and shortening and destruction of the intestinal gland was suppressed. [33]

10. Glucosamine helps in relieving lower back pain

Glucosamine is reported to be helpful in relieving the lower back pain caused due to disc degeneration. Glucosamine’s anti-inflammatory properties help in slowing down the cartilage degeneration and thereby subsiding the inflammatory reactions such as stiffness and pain.

Confidence Level: Low

In 2003, a research paper was published on how glucosamine along with chondroitin sulphate (CS) can address the disc degeneration. It was reported that oral glucosamine and CS are chondroprotective in function and these inhibit the cartilage breakdown.

It also reported that regular oral doses of these two molecules can promote cartilage regeneration in patients who are suffering from early stages of disc degeneration. [34]

Dosage of Glucosamine

The standard recommended dosage for glucosamine sulphate is 1,500 mg/day – 500mg of glucosamine three times a day. Research experiments talk up to administering 3,000 mg/day depending on the condition of the patient.

Glucosamine supplements are consumed along with the food. It is always safer to discuss with a healthcare professional before consuming glucosamine supplements. [35] [36]

Precaution

Adverse effects

Glucosamine supplements are well tolerated with occasional GI disturbances like heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Allergic reactions like angioedema, photosensitivity, and asthmatic crises have also been recorded in rare cases.

Safety during Pregnancy, Lactation, and Childhood

Due to insufficient data, it is advised that pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children

consult a healthcare professional before consuming glucosamine supplements.

Known Health Conditions

Glucosamine is reported to worsen asthma. Therefore, in order to avoid risks, people with known medical conditions are requested to consult a healthcare professional before using glucosamine supplements.

Possible interactions with drugs

• Warfarin: Avoid consuming glucosamine while on warfarin (Coumadin). According to a few scientific reports, Glucosamine interacts with warfarin by increasing the effect of the latter. This may lead to bruising and bleeding, which might be fatal. [37]
• Paracetamol: Glucosamine is reported to interact with paracetamol by increasing the bioavailability of the drug. [38]
• Diabetic Medication: Primary reports have shown that glucosamine might reduce the efficacy of the diabetic medication and alter the blood glucose level in diabetics. However, more studies are required in this aspect.
• Chemotherapy Drugs: Glucosamine is also said to interact with chemotherapy drugs such as etoposide, teniposide, and doxorubicin and bring their efficacy down.

Overdosage

There are no extensive studies conducted on the effects of glucosamine overdose in humans.

Dosage up to 3000mg/day is said to be safe with no adverse effects.

However, it is recommended that the patients do not consume more than what is recommended by their physician/nutritionist.

Shellfish Allergy

Individuals who are allergic to shellfish/seafood should be cautious while consuming glucosamine supplements, as glucosamine is largely derived from the shells of crabs, shrimps, and lobsters.

However, there have been no reports of any allergic reactions to shellfish-derived glucosamine so far.

Those who worry about allergic reactions can opt for vegetarian glucosamine that is derived from corn and Aspergillus.

However, it must be noted there is no evidence on the efficacy of vegetarian glucosamine.

In the end..

Glucosamine has a variety of benefits and thus a great supplement to have. But equally important is to select the right brand of the supplement otherwise it may cause side effects.

Here is our list of best Glucosamine supplements again for you. Click on the links to get specs, reviews, price and offers from Amazon -

• ZenWise Health Glucosamine
• BulkSupplements Glucosamine
• Vimerson Health Glucosamine
• Schiff Glucosamine Vitamin
• Doctor’s Best Glucosamine
• VitaBreeze Glucosamine
• BioSchwartz Glucosamine
• Healthzone Naturals Glucosamine
• Tropical Oasis Joint
• Amazing Nutrition Glucosamine
• MAV Nutrition Glucosamine
• Vimerson Health Glucosamine with BioPerine
• Zenesis Labs Glucosamine