Contains sodium-free potassium stabilized glucosamine sulfate, bovine chondroitin sulfate and pure MSM. (OptiMSM®).
Suggested Adult Use: Take 2 capsules twice daily, with or without food.
Note: Glucosamine is obtained from the shells of shellfish.
Supplement Facts Serving Size: 2 Capsules Serving per container: 120 servings Amount Per Serving % DV** Chloride (from glucosamine sulfate 2KCl) 84 mg 2% Sodium (from chondroitin sulfate) 28 mg 1% Potassium (from glucosamine sulfate 2KCl) 91 mg 3% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Glucosamine sulfate 2KCl 750 mg † Chondroitin sulfate 600 mg † (from chondroitin sulfate sodium) Methylsulfonylmethane 500 mg † OptiMSM® ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ** Percent Daily Values are based on a diet supplying 2000 calories per day. † Daily Value not established.
Other ingredients: Cellulose, magnesium stearate (vegetable source), gelatin (capsule).
The amount of chondroitin sulfate is verified by CPC Titration testing, using USP Test Method and USP Reference Material (dried).
240C
Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM contains pure glucosamine sulfate, as confirmed by HPLC testing. Glucosamine sulfate is extracted from chitin, a long-chain polymer consisting of many glucosamine molecules linked together. Chitin forms structural frameworks in many living things, including aquatic crustaceans such as lobsters, crabs, and shrimp. In our formula, the glucosamine is purified and then sulfated and stabilized with potassium chloride.
Note: Glucosamine sulfate is derived from the shells of oceangrown shellfish. It is processed to remove all residues of protein and impurities, yielding pure glucosamine sulfate as the final material.
Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM contains chondroitin sulfate with a purity of 90 percent or greater. Quality assurance testing is performed using two sophisticated laboratory analysis methods: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and Cetyl Pyridinium Chloride (CPC) Titration.
Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM features OptiMSM® methylsulfonylmethane, MSM distilled to be 99.9% pure. A biological compound that occurs in the human body and in some foods, MSM is an excellent dietary source of bioavailable organic sulfur.
The MSM Story-One of Nature's Primary Sources of Organic Dietary Sulfur!
The human body requires a continuous supply of usable sulfur, and MSM is one of the primary organic sulfur-containing molecules for use by living organisms. From life's earliest beginnings, primitive marine organisms (blue-green algae and phytoplankton) have absorbed inorganic sulfur from ocean waters and produced organic sulfur molecules, primarily dimethyl sulfonium salts. These salts are released back into the sea, where they are converted to dimethyl sulfide, which readily evaporates, ending up in the upper atmosphere. Dimethyl sulfide is then oxidized by UV light, forming DMSO and MSM. The two compounds are delivered to land masses in rain water, and absorbed by plants. MSM is a stable end product of this process, serving as a primary source of sulfur in the food chain.
Supports Joint Structure, Function, and Comfort*
The Roles of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate in Joints Articular cartilage is a connective tissue composed of specialized cells (chondrocytes) embedded in a matrix of protein fibers (mostly collagen) and clusters of complex proteoglycan molecules that consist of a protein core with numerous side chains. These side chains, chiefly chondroitin sulfate and keratin sulfate, are long polysaccharide molecules called glycosaminoglycans. Chondroitin sulfate (CS) and the other glycosaminoglycans strongly attract water due to the negative charges of their sulfate groups. These negative charges also repel each other, creating spaces between glycosaminoglycan side chains where water can enter. This combination of solid and liquid gives cartilage a compressible quality that allows it to function as a shock absorber for joints.1
Glucosamine is a fundamental building block for proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans. Glucosamine sulfate (GS) helps to maintain joint health through its ability to both act as a component of and stimulate formation of cartilage glycosaminoglycans and the hyaluronic acid backbone essential for the formation of cartilage proteoglycans.2 The Abundant Evidence Behind Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate Extensive joint health research over the past few decades has investigated the effects of glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, or a combination of the two. A 2009 meta-analysis summarized results from 6 well-designed studies involving a total of 1,502 research participants. The authors of this meta-analysis were able to make some conclusions about the apparent effectiveness of long-term oral supplementation with CS or GS. Glucosamine sulfate at 1,500 mg daily over a period of at least 3 years and chondroitin sulfate at 800 mg daily over a period of at least 2 years both helped subjects maintain healthy knee cartilage structure.3 In a 2008 review of GS & CS used for joint support, the London physician who wrote it concludes that, “Glucosamine, chondroitin, and the combination of these two agents have stood the test of time.”4
Glucosamine sulfate is one of the most important—and thoroughly researched—dietary supplements for joint health ever developed.5 In addition to its potential to influence joint structure (and thus function), research also backs the ability of GS to influence joint comfort. In one such multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study of 252 subjects, joint comfort in the knee was found to be higher in the glucosamine sulfate group than the placebo group.6 Similar studies of equal magnitude found that GS enhanced joint comfort.7, 8 Key among findings from these types of studies is the reoccurring theme of a good safety profile for glucosamine sulfate; reported “side effects” of GS were essentially no different than placebo.
Similar to glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate is known to influence the maintenance of healthy cartilage—in this case by acting on matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). Chondroitin sulfate has been shown to inhibit MMP-3 synthesis, which plays an important role in homeostasis of cartilage proteoglycans. Additionally, CS can downplay MMP-13 in chondrocytes, helping to maintain the integrity of articular cartilage matrix.9
Clinical Trials Explore MSM’s Joint Action Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial examining the effect of MSM supplementation on joint comfort in 50 men and women are promising. Subjects taking OptiMSM® methylsulfonylmethane for 12 weeks experienced greater joint comfort than those taking placebo, suggesting potential for MSM as a joint support nutrient that warrants further investigation in larger clinical trials.10 MSM also produced statistically significant changes in urinary malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress.
MSM has also been used in combination with glucosamine to study their impact on the health of joints. In one such study, a total of 118 subjects were randomized into one of four groups for 12 weeks: glucosamine (500 mg three times daily), MSM (500 mg three times daily), the combination of glucosamine and MSM, or a placebo treatment. Glucosamine alone and MSM alone were shown to enhance joint function, while the combination was found to be even more effective, by both subjective and objective measurements.11
Note: Glucosamine is obtained from the shells of shellfish.
Mansour, J., 2004, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: Baltimore. p. 14.
Kelly, G.S., Altern Med Rev, 1998. 3(1): p. 27-39.
Lee, Y.H., et al., Rheumatol Int, 2010. 30(3): p. 357-63.
Huskisson, E.C., J Int Med Res, 2008. 36(6): p. 1161-79.
Vangsness, C.T., Jr., W. Spiker, and J. Erickson, Arthroscopy, 2009. 25(1): p. 86-94.
Noack, W., et al., Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 1994. 2: p. 51-59.
Muller-Fassbender, H., et al., Osteoarthritis Cartilage, 1994. 2(1): p. 61-9.
What is your MSM made of? Is it natural or synthetic?
A1.
It is synthetic. OptiMSM is made by converting DMSO (dimethylsufloxide) which is an organosulfur compound (organic compound containing sulfur), to DMSO2. ALL commercially available MSM is manufactured, because amounts found in nature are too small to be extracted.
Q2.
Why did you switch from Lignisul/natural to OptiMSM/synthetic?
A2.
We recently switched raw material suppliers from Lignisul MSM to OptiMSM. The reasons for this change included consistency of supply and clinical trial support specifically using OptiMSM. Lignisul MSM is still effective MSM and was used successfully by Doctor's Best for years. Lignisul is a premium product and is 99.9% pure. Lignisul MSM is made in the US and is natural.
On the other hand, the OptiMSM is manufactured in the US by a manufacturer solely producing MSM. OptiMSM is produced by oxidizing DMSO. This process parallels the natural oxidation of DMSO to MSM that occurs in the marine atmosphere and produces MSM that is chemically identical to that found in nature. The most important reason for the change is consistency of supply so it can be available to our customers without pause.
Q3.
What is the difference between MSM and sulfur?
A3.
MSM and sulfur are not one and the same thing. MSM is an organic substance that contains bioavailable sulfur. MSM is not pure sulfur. It contains about 34 percent elemental sulfur. 1000 mg of MSM contains about 340 milligrams of elemental sulfur. (250 grams of MSM powder weighs 8.75 ounces.)
Q4.
What if I’m allergic to sulfur, sulfa drugs or sulfites and sulfates? Can I take MSM?
A4.
Yes, according to the experts on MSM. MSM is not a sulfate or a sulfite. It is completely different from sulfa drugs, sulfites and sulfates.
Q5.
Is MSM related to or does it contain caffeine?
A5.
No
Q6.
What are the contraindications to MSM?
A6.
According to the PDR for Nutritional Supplements, there are no known contraindications for MSM, except that it should not be used by pregnant and nursing mothers. (This is a general precaution that is applied because MSM has not been proven safe in pregnancy, not because it is known to be unsafe.) If taking blood-thinning medications or aspirin on a regular basis, consulting your physician to determine if a lower starting dose of MSM is recommended. Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal bloating, constipation or indigestion (Kim et al. 2006).
Q7.
Is Chondroitin sodium-free?
A7.
No, it does contain a small amount of sodium. Sodium must be added during processing. Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM contains just 14 mg of sodium per capsule.
Q8.
What are your gelatin capsules made of?
A8.
Our capsules are typical gelatin capsules, with the exception of select products now available in veggie cap form. See veggie cap listing. They are made of gelatin from cattle, like the “Knox gelatin” sold in grocery stores.
The gelatin used to make Doctor’s Best’s capsules is manufactured in accordance with strict guidelines that ensure it is BSE-free. The FDA and the supplement industry approved these guidelines. Our gelatin is made only from cattle living in non-BSE countries. All Doctor’s Best capsules are in full compliance with the FDA’s September 1997 guidance for industry for “The Sourcing and Processing of Gelatin to Reduce the Potential Risk Posed by Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in FDA-Regulated Products for Human Use.”
Q9.
How long would it take for a CAPSULE to dissolve?
A9.
Approximately 30-45 minutes. For 2-piece gelatin capsule, the USP standard for maximum dissolution time is 45 minutes. According to one large encapsulator, gelatin capsules typically dissolve in about 30 minutes, but never more than 45 minutes.
Note: Testing dissolution times of capsules and tablets at home using vinegar is not an accurate way to learn what happens to capsules and tablets in your stomach. Because stomach acid is much stronger than vinegar, capsules and tablets dissolve much faster in the stomach than in a glass of water or vinegar. Also, the stomach continually “agitates” the content much like a washing machine does.
Q10.
I am somewhat confused on how to take the DRB products. On many of the labels the Suggested Adult Use will list something along the lines of: Take 2 capsules daily, but it does not state whether they should be taken together or separately. What is the correct usage?
A10.
Unless otherwise specified on the label, the product may be taken together or separately.
Q11.
Is there a limit to how many vitamins can be taken safely in one day?
A11.
While our bodies need vitamins and minerals, like other things, if taken in large amounts they may adversely affect health. Large amounts of anything can be toxic. It is important to follow all label directions and discuss any concerns with your physician.
Q12.
What are the other ingredients and why are they used?
A12.
These are used as flow agents and aid in the production to keep the machinery running smoothly and the capsules filling correctly. Similarly for the croscarmellose sodium, which is cellulose (sourced from the cell walls of green plants), and is used to help disintegrate the tablet in the stomach.
Q13.
It seems that information is now out claiming that magnesium stearate is a form of, or implicated in, trans fat, which everyone now regards as being bad. Why does Doctor’s Best use magnesium stearate in its products?
A13.
Magnesium Stearate is used to work as a lubricant in the formula. Magnesium Stearate is a salt of stearic acid. Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid. A trans fatty acid (commonly shortened to trans fat) is an unsaturated fatty acid molecule. Stearic acid, being a saturated fatty acid, is not a trans fat. The magnesium stearate used in Doctor’s Best products is vegetable sourced from palm oil.
Q14.
What is the source of the cellulose found in the some of the Doctor’s Best products?
A14.
The cellulose is made from alpha cellulose from softwood pulp. This softwood pulp may be derived from hemlock, Spruce or other soft woods.
Q15.
Since Doctor's Best does not manufacture its supplements, how are the purity and integrity of supplements verified? In addition, how are your prices lower than other brands? Does this mean that quality is being compromised?
A15.
Doctor's Best supplements are manufactured in the US at cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practice) certified facilities. All of our manufacturers and suppliers go through our vendor qualification program, which includes inspections and testing, before we agree to work with them. Our finished products have also been tested at the raw material level, in process, and as a finished product to ensure safety and quality. We place the highest importance on safety and quality and do not compromise for the sake of a better price point. The price points are lower because of production size and the overall business structure. We also place great importance on making our supplements available and affordable to those who need them most.
Q16.
What is HPLC?
A16.
HPLC stands for "High Performance Liquid Chromatography." This is an analytical lab testing method that is used to quantify the active ingredients. It is considered to be a very sensitive and accurate test. HPLC testing is a tool recognized as a quality benchmark for herbal extracts.
Q17.
Does cellulose interfere with the absorption of supplements?
A17.
Dietary fiber in general is known to change intestinal viscosity, nutrient absorption, transit time, and gut hormones. Although there is some evidence from animal studies that large amounts of cellulose in the diet (6-12% of diet) can interfere with nutrient absorption (particularly minerals), there is no evidence that the small amount in capsules interfere with nutrient absorption, as there are many pharmacokinetic studies that have been conducted with nutrients in cellulose capsules, demonstrating the ability of the nutrients to be effectively absorbed.
Fact Sheet
FAQ's
More Info