Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

12:44
Creation of a Knee Joint-on-a-Chip for Modeling Joint Diseases and Testing Drugs
Published on: January 27, 2023
Oral polymeric N-acetyl-D-glucosamine and osteoarthritis
B R Rubin1, J M Talent, P Kongtawelert
1Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center/Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA. brubin@usc.unt.edu
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|July 4, 2001
Summary
Many arthritis patients use supplements like N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (NAG) without informing doctors. POLY-Nag, a glucosamine polymer, showed potential benefits for osteoarthritis treatment in a recent study.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Nutritional Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Many arthritis patients use alternative therapies, including nutritional supplements.
- Patient disclosure of alternative therapy use to healthcare providers is low.
- Over-the-counter supplements represent a significant patient expenditure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a polymer of N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (POLY-Nag) in treating osteoarthritis.
- To conduct a rigorous assessment of a specific glucosamine-based supplement.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled study design was employed.
- The study involved patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis.
- The efficacy of POLY-Nag was compared against a placebo.
Main Results:
- Results suggest that POLY-Nag may offer therapeutic benefits for osteoarthritis patients.
- The study provides preliminary evidence for the efficacy of POLY-Nag.
Conclusions:
- POLY-Nag demonstrates potential as a treatment option for osteoarthritis.
- Further research may validate the use of POLY-Nag in arthritis management.

