Types of chondroprotectors. Restoring joints - are chondroprotectors needed and myths about chondroitin. What chondroprotectors should be taken to treat arthrosis of the knee joint?

Chondroprotectors (chondrolytics) are a group of medications intended to treat diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Medicines strengthen joints, make them more mobile, promote the regeneration of damaged cartilage tissue and slow down degenerative processes leading to the complete destruction of the moving joints of skeletal bones.

Chondroprotectors are long-acting drugs. The effect of such medications may only appear after several months of treatment. If the disease is already destroying cartilage tissue, then chondroprotectors can be beneficial only in the initial stages of the development of the pathology.

Mechanism of action

Chondroprotectors can include both natural and synthetic components.

There are single-dose medications and medications that contain several active substances. Most drugs are based on two medicinal components - chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine.

The effect of chondroitin sulfate is manifested in the suppression of excessive activity of the enzyme hyaluronidase, which provokes the biological degradation of hyaluronic acid, an important component of cartilage tissue. Chondroitin sulfate, on the contrary, accelerates the natural production of hyaluronic acid and other cartilage components - collagen, glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. In addition to the main therapeutic effect, it relieves pain and relieves inflammation.

Glucosamine is a natural component of cartilage. When treated with glucosamine-based chondrolytics, the production of proteoglycans and collagen fibers is enhanced. The medicinal substance protects joints from free radicals that lead to disruption of cell integrity, improves metabolism in cartilage tissue, relieves pain and eliminates inflammation.

In addition to the two main substances, chondroprotectors can be produced on the basis of diacerein (NSAID), which has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, quickly relieves swelling and pain, and also normalizes metabolic processes in blood vessels.

No less popular are preparations with mucopolysaccharide polyester of sulfuric acid. They block the action of the enzyme hyaluronidase and improve the production of intra-articular fluid.

Classification of drugs

Chondroprotectors combine groups of different drugs. They differ in the composition of active ingredients, the form of medications, and are also classified depending on the time of appearance on the market (generation of drugs).

The most effective medications are considered to be combined chondroprotectors that can have a comprehensive effect on the problem. The therapeutic effect also depends on how the medicine reaches the diseased source, since healing substances, traveling the path to the affected area, may partially lose their properties.

Chondrolytics are available in the form of ointment, gel, cream, tablets, capsules or injections:

• Ointments. Local medications best eliminate the symptoms of the disease - pain, swelling and other phenomena characteristic of the inflammatory process. However, when used in this way, the active substances enter the blood in small quantities and, therefore, cannot have a significant effect on cartilage and bone tissue.
• Pills. There is still debate in the medical community about the advisability of oral administration of chondroprotectors. Experts believe that the active components undergo strong changes on the way to diseased joints, so their therapeutic effect is weak. In addition, vascular spasms in the affected area impede the flow of medicinal substances to the cartilage. But despite this, such drugs, when taken long-term and systematically, can improve the condition of blood vessels, eliminating painful symptoms and slowing down degenerative processes.
• Injections. In this case, medicinal substances are delivered to the affected areas in two ways - intramuscular and intra-articular injections. The first method has an advantage over tablets in that the components of the drug enter the blood in full, without going through the process of absorption in the intestines. However, in the presence of spasms of blood vessels, their effectiveness decreases. The second method of delivering chondroprotectors to the joints is the most effective, since the drug instantly moisturizes the surfaces in contact with each other and nourishes the cartilage tissue. Intra-articular injections, in turn, are divided into joint fluid substitutes and chondrolytics.

In addition to medicines, chondroprotectors can be found in ordinary foods.

It is healthy to eat avocado, soybeans, broths or aspic from meat and fish, jellied meat, stew, which is cooked with bones and joints.

Some medications included in this group are of natural origin and are made from animal cartilage, less often from plant extracts.

Generations of drugs:

1. Medicines produced on the basis of natural ingredients (cartilage extracts, plants).
2. Preparations with purified chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine.
3. Combined-action drugs containing several components, for example, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine and diclofenac (Teraflex Advance).

For what diseases are chondrolytics indicated?

Indications for taking chondrolytics are any pathologies or injuries of the musculoskeletal system that affect joints, bones and cartilage tissue.

In particular:

• arthrosis - degenerative phenomena in large joints, characterized by the destruction of cartilage tissue;
• osteochondrosis - pathology of the spinal column, expressed in degenerative processes in the intervertebral discs;
• osteoporosis - decreased bone density;
• spondyloarthrosis is a pathology that affects the facet parts of the joints of the spine;
• coxarthrosis - deforming arthrosis of the hip joint;
• pseudarthrosis arising from fractures;
• meniscopathy is a pathology in which the meniscus is destroyed;
• dorsalgia, characterized by severe pain in the lower back;
• arthritis - inflammation of the joints;
• chondromolation of the patella - destruction of the cartilage tissue of the kneecap;
• periarthritis - inflammation of tendons and other periarticular tissues.

Chondroprotectors are often prescribed to athletes as prophylaxis, since they are at risk for diseases of the joints and spine or directly in the event of a sports injury. Chonrolytics are taken for bone fractures due to the high probability of damage to cartilage tissue.

Chondroprotectors in tablets, injections, ointments: review of popular medications

The pharmaceutical market offers many different medications related to chondroprotectors. Ointments, creams and gels act on the problem from the outside, eliminating swelling and pain. Chondroprotectors in tablets are effective with a long course of use, since their main effect is to improve the nutrition of joints and protect cartilage tissue from destruction. Intra-articular fluid substitutes allow you to achieve instant results, however, such injections are quite expensive and are not suitable for everyone.

The drug is based on glucosamine sulfate. The medication is produced in capsules, in powder form, which can be taken orally or in ampoules for intramuscular administration. Chondrolytic is considered one of the fastest-acting drugs of this type. Within two weeks it has a pronounced effect on arthrosis, osteochondrosis or arthritis.

Take one or two capsules up to three times a day. The powder is diluted in water and drunk half an hour before meals once a day. The course will require two packages of the drug (twenty pieces each). Injections are given every other day in a dosage of three milliliters.

Powders can be replaced with injections or treated simultaneously with two forms of the drug, but only as prescribed by a doctor. Treatment is carried out over a period of one to four months, depending on the severity of the pathology.

The drug should not be taken by pregnant or lactating women, or if there is an allergic reaction to the active ingredient. Side effects are rare. Nausea or diarrhea may occur when taking the powder or capsules. When solutions are administered intramuscularly, side effects arising from lidocaine are possible - drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, etc.

The medication belongs to the third generation and is a combination of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate. Available in capsule form. It is used for the treatment of arthrosis, injuries of joints and bone tissue, and osteochondrosis. At the initial stage of treatment, it can be taken up to three times a day; after relief of the condition, the dosage is reduced to one capsule per day. The course of taking Teraflex lasts from one to two months.

The drug is not prescribed to patients diagnosed with phenylketonuria. In rare cases, side effects such as diarrhea or nausea may occur.

A chondroprotector in tablets with a similar composition of active substances is Artron complex. You can be treated with this medication for up to three months. The course is repeated twice a year.

Other analogues of Theraflex with chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride are the chondroprotectors Artra and Kondronov. The first is produced in tablets, the second in capsules.

Each of the drugs contains a small list of contraindications, which must be read before treatment. In general, these chondroprotectors are well tolerated by patients, with virtually no side effects.

Teraflex Advance is supplemented with a third component - ibuprofen, which belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Capsules quickly eliminate joint pain and tissue swelling, however, the list of contraindications to the use of the drug is significantly expanding.

Refers to drugs included in the list of first generation chondrolytics. Consists of natural ingredients produced from four species of marine fish. The medication has a wide range of indications for use - joint injuries, arthrosis, spondylosis, arthritis, periarthritis, periodontal disease, postoperative restoration of bones and joints.

The chondroprotector is available in ampoules and is intended for intramuscular administration. If large joints, such as knees, are affected, the solution can be injected directly into them.

Injections into the muscle are given once a day, one ampoule for three weeks. The injection is performed inside the joint once every three or four days, but no more than six injections for the entire course of treatment.

Despite the natural origin of the medicine, it is not recommended to take it before the age of eighteen. Another contraindication is hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

The medication is popular among chondroprotectors in tablets or capsules based on chondrointin sulfate. The medicine is used for arthrosis and osteochondrosis. Take one capsule once or twice a day for three weeks. Treatment can be extended up to two months, on the recommendation of the attending physician.

The drug is contraindicated for use in thrombophlebitis, bleeding tendency and in children under fifteen years of age.

Structural analogues of chondrolytic are Chondroitin, Chondroxide, Mucosad (injections).

Toad stone

It is a dietary supplement, that is, a biologically active food additive. Produced from the toad grass plant, containing chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine. The medicine can be taken orally or treated locally by rubbing the ointment into the affected joints. The capsules are taken three times a day for one month. Contraindication for use is age under fourteen years.

You can take chondroprotectors in tablets or give injections, but before treatment you should carefully read the instructions for the drugs and study all the features of the therapy. If you purchase medications that need to be treated for several months, it is better to buy the medicine for the entire course at once. The therapeutic effects of taking pills are not immediately noticeable, so you should not give up therapy halfway, as this will be a waste of time and money.

Chondroprotective drugs: how to choose and how much they cost

Chondrolytics should be selected depending on the location, nature and severity of the disease. It is best to consult a doctor who will draw up an individual treatment program, taking into account all the characteristics of the disease and the patient’s condition. The doctor may prescribe several chondroprotective drugs at the same time, for example, ointment to relieve swelling, eliminate pain and tablets to restore the joint and protect cartilage tissue.

How to choose chondroprotectors

If the disease is at an early stage, then you can limit yourself to inexpensive tablets that will improve the condition of the joint and stop the development of the disease. Doctors recommend purchasing single medications or medications made from natural ingredients. As a preventative measure, you can use homeopathic medicines, for example, Tzel T, Tarumel S.

Advanced pathology should be treated comprehensively. In this case, it is advisable to use chondroprotective drugs in injections, which will bring more tangible results.

From the tablet form, it is necessary to choose third-generation medications that combine several therapeutic effects.

For pregnant and lactating women, chondroprotective drugs should be prescribed strictly by the attending physician. Since the effect of active ingredients on the fetus and newborn child has not been sufficiently studied, the list of approved medications is very limited.

Prices

The cost of individual chondroprotective drugs varies widely, so you should carefully consider the purchase. Foreign drugs of the second and third generation can cost from one to two thousand rubles per pack, and a course of treatment may require two or three packs. Domestic medicines and dietary supplements cost from one hundred to two hundred rubles, that is, almost ten times cheaper.

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

What are chondroprotectors?

Classification

First classification
The first classifies these drugs according to the time of their introduction into medical practice. She distinguishes 3 generations of chondroprotectors:

• First generation: Rumalon, Alflutop.
• Second generation: glucosamines, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid.
• Third generation: chondroitin sulfate + hydrochloride.

• Khonsurid;
• Chondrolone;
• Mucosat;
• Structum;
• Arthron Chondrex.

• Rumalon;
• Alflutop.

• Don;
• Artron flex.

• Artron complex;
• Teraflex;
• Formula-S.

List of chondroprotective drugs

• Artra (USA, tablets);
• Dona (Italy, solution for injection and powder for oral administration);
• Structum (France, capsules);
• Theraflex (UK, capsules);
• Alflutop (Romania, injection solution);
• Elbona (Russia, solution for injection);
• Chondrolone (Russia, solution for injection);
• Chondroitin AKOS (Russia, capsules);
• Formula-S (Russia, capsules);
• CONDROnova (India, capsules, ointment);
• "Toad Stone" (Russia, capsules, balm and cream).

Indications and contraindications

• arthrosis (coxarthrosis, gonarthrosis, arthrosis of small joints, etc.);
• arthritis and periarthritis (inflammatory diseases of the joints and periarticular tissues);
• osteochondrosis;
• spondylosis (formation of bone growths on the vertebrae);
• dystrophic changes in articular cartilage;
• joint injuries;
• recovery period after joint surgery;
• periodontal disease.

Chondroprotectors are prescribed with caution for diseases of the digestive system.

Treatment with chondroprotectors

Treatment with chondroprotectors is carried out in long courses, lasting at least 4 months. The break between the 1st and 2nd courses is 2-3 months, then the doctor determines the duration of therapy, depending on the patient’s condition.

Chondroprotectors act slowly, but the analgesic effect from their use lasts for a long time (3-6 months).

Preparations for oral administration

Their effect on the body begins to appear only after 3 months from the start of treatment, and only after six months a stable effect is created. Despite long-term use, chondroprotectors are usually well tolerated without causing side effects.

Preparations for injections

The effect of intramuscular administration of these drugs appears much faster than when taking chondroprotectors orally. The course of treatment consists of 10-20 injections. Then oral medications are prescribed.

Intra-articular fluid substitutes

The course of treatment consists of 3-5 injections. Sometimes one intra-articular injection is enough. A repeat course is possible no earlier than six months later.

Intra-articular injections are a medical procedure. Most often, chondroprotectors are injected into the knee joints. Injections into the hip joints are rarely done, and only under the control of an X-ray machine (these joints are located deep in the tissue, and it is difficult to insert a needle into them “blindly”).

Recommendations for patients receiving chondroprotectors

• If you are overweight, you need to take measures to lose weight: consult a nutritionist and make changes to your diet. As body weight decreases, joint pain also decreases.
• It is necessary to avoid movements associated with stress on the sore joint.
• It is very important to regularly perform physical therapy exercises (these exercises are performed lying down or sitting, and put stress on the muscles surrounding the joint, and not on the articular cartilage itself).
• Walking on a flat road is useful (at least 20-30 minutes a day).
• Physical activity should be interspersed with periods of rest: after every hour spent on your feet, you need to rest for 5-10 minutes, sitting or lying down.
• Hypothermia of the lower extremities must be avoided.

When to use chondroprotectors - video

Chondroprotectors in the treatment of various diseases

Osteochondrosis

Treatment must be comprehensive - it is impossible to cure osteochondrosis with chondroprotectors alone. And in combination with other drugs, the effectiveness of both chondroprotectors and other drugs increases. The combination of drugs and the regimen for taking them is selected by the doctor. Courses of treatment are very long: from 1 to 2 months.

Chondroprotectors are also used for such complications of osteochondrosis as intervertebral hernia. They are used as an aid in the postoperative period.

Arthrosis

Early administration of chondroprotective agents, in particular glucosamine sulfate (Dona, Artron Flex, CONDROnova) stimulates the production of intra-articular fluid and improves its lubricating properties. The use of chondroprotectors is especially important in the complex treatment of coxarthrosis (arthrosis of the hip joints). This treatment includes intra-articular administration of chondroprotective drugs under X-ray control.

To obtain a sustainable therapeutic effect for coxarthrosis, it is necessary to undergo 2-4 courses of treatment with chondroprotectors. In total, with interruptions, the entire treatment takes about one and a half years.

Arthritis

Characteristics of individual chondroprotective drugs

Don

Indications for use: prescribed for arthrosis, arthritis, osteochondrosis.

Dosage: 1 powder 1 time per day for 6 weeks. The powder must be dissolved in a glass before use.

Many degenerative diseases of the supporting apparatus are characterized by damage to cartilage tissue, which subsequently leads to severe pain and difficulty in mobility. In this case, doctors often prescribe chondroprotectors for joints to their patients. However, it is worth noting that the drugs are effective at the initial stage of the disease; at a later stage they will no longer have any effect.

What are chondroprotectors? Chondroprotectors are medications that act on the area where the problem is located. The active components help reduce the amount of effusion in the joint capsule.

It is worth noting that chondroprotectors are names that combine a diverse group of medications and biological additives. These medications promote the dynamic restoration and preservation of cartilage integrity. Of course, treatment takes a lot of time; a course of at least 2 months will be required. The constituent substances of chondroprotectors are chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine. The tablets also have auxiliary components: antioxidants, vitamins, minerals.

Are chondroprotectors effective? Taking the drugs helps reduce inflammation and normalizes the overall structure of porous cartilage tissue. As a result, the pain begins to subside. The peculiarity of these products is that they do not promote the development of new tissues, but the regeneration of old cartilage. But, the effective result will be if there is at least a small layer of cartilage in the damaged joint.

Medicines can be used together with analgesics. In case of changing pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, these tablets will provide an effective result only when the disease is in the initial stage of development.

Classification of drugs

The classification of chondroprotectors is divided by composition, generation, and method of application.

1. The first classification divides these drugs according to the time of their introduction into medicine and consists of 3 generations:

• I generation (Alflutop, Rumalon, Mukartrin, Arteparon) - products of natural origin, consist of plant extracts, animal cartilage;
• II generation – contains hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine; very good drugs are produced by the pharmaceutical company Evalar;
• III generation – combined product – chondroitin sulfate + hydrochloride.

1. Another chondroprotectors, their classification is divided into groups, depending on their composition:

• medications whose main substance is chondroitin (Chondrolone, Chondrex, Mucosat, Structum);
• mucopolysaccharides (Arteparon);
• preparations consisting of natural extracts of animal cartilage (Alflutop, Rumalon);
• preparations with glucosamine (Dona, Artron flex);
• the best chondroprotectors with complex effects (Teraflex, Artron complex, Formula-C).

1. There is also a classification, the essence of which is their release form:

• injection chondroprotector drugs (Elbona, Chondrolon, Moltrex, Adgelon), these any injections are more effective than capsules, tablets, since they begin to act immediately; intramuscular injection is used; course of treatment – ​​10-20 days, 1 injection, then treatment with tablets continues;
• capsules, tablets (Dona, Structum, Artra, Teraflex), their characteristic feature is that they begin to act only after 2-3 months, but after half a year an excellent result is observed; despite the fact that these drugs have been used for a long time, they are normally tolerated by the body and have virtually no side effects;
• substitutes for the fluid present in the joint (Fermatron, Sinokrom, Ostenil, Sinvisk), they are used by direct injection into the joint; the course of treatment is usually 3-5 injections, but it happens that the desired result is already noticeable after the first injection; If there is a need for re-treatment, this is possible only after six months.

The list of chondroprotectors is quite diverse, so you don’t need to select them yourself. You should first visit a doctor, he will prescribe the correct medicine, since in each situation it is selected individually for each person.

Indications and contraindications

So, chondroprotective drugs can be used for the prevention and treatment of the following diseases:

• cervical, thoracic, lumbar osteochondrosis;
• periodontal disease;
• traumatic joint disorders;
• arthrosis (gonarthrosis, coxarthrosis);
• periarthritis, arthritis;
• postoperative period;
• dystrophic damage in cartilage.

The use of these drugs is not always possible. There are the following contraindications:

• pregnancy, during lactation;
• allergic reaction to the components of the drug;
• the last stage of dystrophic, degenerative diseases of the skeletal system;
• children under 12 years of age.

Use natural chondroprotectors with caution in case of digestive system disorders.

Any medicine should be used only as prescribed by a doctor. In order for chondroprotectors to have a beneficial effect on joints, they must be used at an early stage of the development of the disease. The patient must comply with the following recommendations:

• there is no need to put too much stress on the damaged joint;
• a person should not be too fat; with a decrease in body weight, joint pain also decreases;
• do not make movements that place stress on the damaged joint;
• do not overcool the lower extremities;
• carry out physical therapy;
• do not forget about rest;
• good for hiking.

Diseases for which it is used

The following pathologies can be treated with these drugs:

1. Osteochondrosis. To treat the disease, chondroprotectors are used for oral administration (Dona, Honda Evalar, Teraflex, Artra, etc.). They restore damaged cartilage tissue and relieve pain. In combination with other means, their effectiveness increases.
2. Arthritis. They use drugs (Chondroxid, Dona, Structum) along with anti-inflammatory and painkillers. Systematic treatment helps reduce swelling, pain, and joint stiffness. If large joints (knees) are damaged, intra-articular injections are used.
3. Arthrosis. Effective chondroprotectors for the treatment of arthrosis (Artron Flex, Dona, Honda Evalar, Alflutop) stimulate the production of intra-articular fluid and normalize its lubricating effects.
4. Coxarthrosis. It is better to choose medications that contain glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate (Teraflex, Chondroxide), they activate the renewal of cartilage and improve metabolism.

List of the most effective

What chondroprotectors can have an effective effect and how to choose? You can select a list of the best drugs for the treatment and restoration of joints:

How to use?

You can see the positive effect of using these drugs only when the therapeutic course is long (about six months at least).

You also need to know that in conjunction with these medications you need to use anti-inflammatory drugs, do massage, physiotherapy, follow a diet, and monitor your weight.

Numerous studies have confirmed the high safety of chondroprotectors when consuming the recommended dose. They have no side effects, except for possible allergic reactions. Drugs are excreted through the kidneys, regardless of the route of administration.

Chondroprotectors are long-acting drugs that nourish cartilage tissue, slow down its destruction and promote its restoration.

Chondroprotectors are prescribed for joint diseases associated with cartilage destruction.

These include arthrosis, arthritis and periarthritis, osteochondrosis, dystrophic changes in articular cartilage, periodontal disease, etc. They are also prescribed during the recovery period after joint surgery.

There are two types of classification of chondroprotectors - by composition and by generation (time of introduction into medical practice).

According to the first sign, drugs are divided as follows:

• Preparations containing chondroitin sulfate (chondroitinsulfuric acid). This is the main building material for joints. It prevents further destruction of cartilage tissue, stimulates the production of interarticular fluid, and reduces the intensity of pain. The main drugs based on it are Chondroxide, Chondrolone, Mucosat, Artron.
• Preparations consisting of animal bone marrow and cartilage - Alflutop, Rumalon.
• Mucopolysaccharides - Arteparon.
• Preparations based on glucosamine, which is a natural compound that helps restore the functions of cartilage tissue, improves its elasticity and inhibits the development of degenerative processes (Artron Flex, Dona).
• Preparations with a complex composition - Teraflex, Artron complex.
• A drug that has both chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties is Arthrodar.

Based on the time of the beginning of the use of drugs in medicine, they are distinguished:

• First generation drugs - Alflutop and Rumalon.
• Second generation drugs include drugs based on hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
• Third generation drugs include hydrochloride in combination with chondroitin sulfate.

In addition, chondroprotectors differ in the method of their application:

• Preparations for internal use. These include Structum, Arthra, Teraflex, Formula - C, Piaskledin. The therapeutic effect of taking them appears 3 months after the start of treatment, and after six months, persistent relief of the disease is established. These drugs differ in that they are almost always well tolerated by patients and do not cause side effects.
• Injectable drugs. This group includes Adgelon, Alflutop, Chondrolone, Noltrex, etc. The effect of treatment is achieved much faster than when taking medications orally, but it is shorter and the course of treatment must be repeated every 6 months.
• Substitutes for intra-articular fluid. These are preparations based on hyaluronic acid. These include Ostenil, Sinokrom, Fermatron and Sinvisc. They are injected directly into large joints and replace intra-articular fluid, the production of which is often reduced in joint diseases. The course of treatment includes 3-5 injections, but sometimes one injection is enough. The course can be repeated only after 6 months.

Chondroprotectors for joints are prescribed only by a doctor after a thorough examination.

It depends on the accurately established diagnosis which drug will be used.

The main diseases for the treatment of which chondroprotectors are used

Coxarthrosis

This is a disease in which physiological wear and tear of the joint occurs and its functional activity is limited.

For its treatment, chondroprotectors are prescribed, which include chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine.

The drug of choice is Teraflex.

It not only stimulates cartilage regeneration and the production of a healthy matrix, but also provides protection against cartilage damage.

When treated with this chondroprotector, the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is significantly reduced.

In addition to Teraflex, Chondroxide is often prescribed for the treatment of coxarthrosis.

It stimulates the regeneration of the joint capsule and improves metabolism in fibrous and hyaline cartilage.

Osteochondrosis

A disease that affects the intervertebral discs together with the ligamentous apparatus of the spine and adjacent vertebral bodies.

To treat this disease, drugs are used that help restore the cartilage tissue of the intervertebral joints and reduce pain.

These are mainly Dona, Arthra and Structum.

When treating osteochondrosis, it is especially important to start treatment as early as possible; in advanced cases of the disease, chondroprotectors are practically useless.

In addition, they should be used simultaneously with other medications - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Voltaren) and vitamin complexes (Milgamma).

The regimen of medications and their combination should be selected by a doctor after a thorough examination.

Arthrosis

This is a dystrophic change in the articular surfaces of a chronic nature.

There are many both positive and negative reviews about the effectiveness of the use of chondroprotectors for this disease.

It should be noted that positive dynamics are observed only when treatment is started in the early stages of the disease and if the drugs are taken over a long course.

The drugs of choice in this case are mainly Artron flex, Dona, Teraflex and Alflutop.

They improve the lubricating properties of intra-articular fluid and stimulate its production.

Spinal diseases

Chondroprotectors are prescribed for vertebral arthritis, spondylosis, osteochondrosis, spinal injuries and in the postoperative period.

The most commonly used are Alflutop, Rumalon, Arthrodar (a complex drug) and other drugs prescribed by a doctor.

Since spinal disease destroys cartilage tissue and reduces interarticular fluid, the main task of chondroprotectors for joints is to normalize the physiological composition of cartilage tissue, thereby promoting its restoration.

This reduces swelling of the joints, their stiffness and the intensity of pain.

Another effect of chondroprotectors is the normalization of the composition and amount of synovial fluid. This helps restore joint function and strengthen cartilage.

Chondroprotectors also have an anti-inflammatory effect.

But this effect appears 2 - 3 weeks after the start of treatment and it lasts for quite a long time.

This distinguishes chondroprotectors for joints from other anti-inflammatory drugs.

Arthritis

An inflammatory disease leading to malnutrition of the joint.

In its treatment, chondroprotectors are used together with painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Mostly drugs containing chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine are prescribed. These are Structum, Dona, Artron flex and Chondroxide.

This treatment leads to a decrease in pain and swelling, and joint mobility returns.

When large joints (knees) are affected, chondroprotectors are injected into the joint.

List of the most effective drugs for joints

Teraflex

A complex drug that includes chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine.

It is used for osteochondrosis of the spine, arthrosis, and joint injuries.

Contraindicated in people suffering from phenylketonuria.

In rare cases, may cause an allergic reaction. It is taken orally, the dosage regimen and dosage are prescribed by the doctor.

Don

The main active ingredient is glucosamine sulfate.

Affects metabolic processes in cartilage tissues and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Prescribed for arthrosis, osteochondrosis and arthritis.

It is taken either orally, in the form of a powder that must be dissolved in water, or administered intramuscularly.

The method of administration and dosage are prescribed by the doctor after examination.

Artra

In terms of popularity, this drug ranks first.

It has a complex composition that includes glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate.

It is used mainly for arthrosis and osteochondrosis.

Contraindicated for people with impaired renal function and children under 15 years of age.

Patients suffering from diabetes and bronchial asthma should undergo treatment under medical supervision. The dosage and treatment regimen are also prescribed by the attending doctor.

Structum

The main composition is chondroitin sulfate.

Used for arthrosis and osteochondrosis, contraindicated for thrombophlebitis.

Available in capsules, the dosage and regimen are prescribed by a doctor.

Formula - C

A prophylactic drug containing glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate.

It is used not only for arthrosis, arthritis, joint injuries and osteochondrosis, but also for bedsores and burns, as it accelerates the healing process.

Take one capsule 2 times a day, preferably after meals.

The course of admission is at least two months.

Alflutop

Natural chondroprotector, includes extract of four species of Black Sea fish.

Improves metabolism in cartilage, has anti-inflammatory properties. Indicated for use in osteochondrosis, spondylosis, arthrosis, periarthritis (inflammation of periarticular tissue), and in the postoperative period.

Individual intolerance to the drug is possible.

Sometimes side effects may occur - pain in the joints and muscles around the site of intramuscular injection of the drug.

The course of treatment is 20 days.

If large joints are affected, Alflutop is injected into the joint. The interval between such injections should be at least 3 to 4 days.

In severe cases, simultaneous intra-articular and intramuscular administration of the drug is possible.

"Toad Stone"

This is a herbal medicine.

It is not a chondroprotector and is considered a biologically active food supplement.

It contains toad grass, which contains glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate.

Available in the form of capsules taken orally and as an ointment for external use.

Take 1 capsule 3 times a day for a month.

Taking chondroprotectors is extremely rarely accompanied by side effects: sometimes patients complain of nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Contraindications for prescribing drugs are pregnancy, breastfeeding and allergies to substances included in their composition.

People suffering from diabetes should take chondroprotectors with caution.

People taking chondroprotectors should remember that to increase the effectiveness of the drugs:

• It is necessary to perform exercise therapy (physical therapy) exercises daily. They are performed sitting or lying down and provide stress not on the joint, but on the muscles surrounding it.
• Physical activity must be combined with periods of rest. Each hour of activity should be followed by 5 to 10 minutes of rest.
• Hypothermia of the lower extremities should not be allowed.
• It is very useful to walk about half an hour a day on a flat surface.
• If you are overweight, you must take measures to lose weight - visit a nutritionist and choose the appropriate diet. Very often, when you lose weight, joint pain decreases significantly.
• If possible, sudden movements should be avoided, which can lead to additional stress on the sore joint.

Prices

These are quite expensive drugs.

The cost of a monthly course of treatment can range from 2,000 to 5,000 rubles.

In some cases, it is possible to replace drugs with their components, produced separately.

For example, the price of the drug Dona is about 1000 rubles. It includes glucosamine, the cost of which, as a separate product, does not exceed 300 rubles. Chondroitin costs the same.

But it is not always possible to replace drugs in this way, which is why a thorough examination and consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Chondroprotectors are drugs that help maintain the normal state of joint cartilage. Some of them also have a positive effect on the restoration of already damaged cartilage.

These drugs can be classified as long-acting drugs, since the effect of treatment appears only after a long period of time.

The active ingredients in almost all preparations are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.

In addition to them, they may contain vitamins, mineral supplements, antioxidants, and so on. Thanks to the active components, cartilage tissue is restored. It is important to start treatment at a stage when the cartilage tissue has not yet completely destroyed. Otherwise, the treatment will not be effective.

Modern classification of chondroprotectors

Experts distinguish two classifications of chondroprotectors. The first is based on the “age” of the drug, that is, exactly when it was created and how long it has been used in practice. According to it, three classes are distinguished:

1. The first generation includes Rumalon and Alflutop.
2. The second includes preparations containing glucosamine or hyaluronic acid.
3. Medicines containing chondroitin sulfate.

In addition, these drugs are divided depending on the components included in the composition:

• Preparations containing chondroitin;
• Products based on natural ingredients (fish or animal cartilage);
• Mucopolysacchorides;
• Products containing glucosamine;
• Complex drugs.

Effect of drugs on joints

The effectiveness of chondroprotectors is explained by the ability of the drugs to act directly on the problem itself, and not on the symptoms. Active substances help reduce effusion into the joint capsule.

In addition, during the use of these medications, signs of inflammation decrease and the condition of the cartilage improves. Due to this, pain is relieved.

It is especially important to note that the drugs promote the restoration of existing tissue, rather than the formation of new one. That is why treatment will be effective only if there is preserved cartilage.

These drugs combine well with analgesics and non-steroidal drugs. Moreover, when using chondroprotectors, it becomes possible to reduce the dose of non-steroidal drugs.

When entering the body, the active substance is absorbed into the blood. In this case, the drug accumulates in the tissues of the joint. Some drugs, for example those containing chondroitin, find it quite difficult to overcome the cellular barrier. In this regard, physiotherapy or additional components are used.

The action of the active substances continues for a month, which allows you to take breaks between courses. Considering that side effects are extremely rare, you can use 2-3 chondroprotectors at the same time - that is, orally, by injection and locally. This will greatly enhance the effect. At the same time, the compatibility of the drugs should be taken into account.

Indications and contraindications for treatment

The main indications for the use of drugs are arthrosis and arthritis. They are also effective for osteochondrosis, polyarthritis, spondylosis, dystrophic changes, including against the background of hormonal imbalance and periodontal disease. In addition, they are often used during rehabilitation after injuries and joint surgeries.

Absolute contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding. For some drugs, contraindications include diabetes mellitus, renal failure, thrombophlebitis, childhood, bronchial asthma, and so on. In addition, allergic reactions to the components of the drugs are possible. In any case, before using the drug, you should consult your doctor and exclude contraindications.

List of popular drugs

We have compiled a brief overview of eight modern drugs. They are considered the best among analogues. Some of them are made from natural natural ingredients.

A natural preparation obtained from certain species of marine fish. When administered intra-articularly, it promotes the formation of hyaluronic acid and type II collagen.

Effective for arthrosis of small joints and osteochondrosis. To achieve lasting results, it is recommended to conduct at least four courses over two years.

prescribed for arthrosis and osteochondrosis. Promotes the restoration of cartilage tissue due to the presence of chondroitin sulfate. Contraindications include childhood and renal impairment. The course is 6 weeks. In this case, for the first 3 weeks you should take two tablets per day, and in subsequent days, one tablet.

If dizziness and digestive problems occur, you should discontinue the drug and consult a specialist. According to many, Artra is the best chondroprotector.

- hyaluronic acid preparation. Injected directly into the affected joint. The active substance is capable of restoring hard cartilage tissue, thereby stopping its destruction.

Promotes not only the restoration of cartilage tissue, but also relieves the inflammatory process. Used in the treatment of arthrosis, arthritis and osteochondrosis. Available in the form of powders for internal use and in the form of injections.

Often, specialists prescribe both intramuscular and oral administration. The effect appears 10-14 days after starting to take the drug.

Dietary supplement containing chondroitin sulfate.

Used for diseases accompanied by damage to cartilage tissue and its destruction.

Used in conjunction with other chondroprotectors.

The drug is a purified extract of cartilage tissue and bone marrow of calves. Used as injections for diseases of the joints and spine.

Efficiency is achieved only with systematic use. To do this, it is prescribed twice a year in a course of 15 ampoules according to a specific scheme, which is developed by the doctor after assessing the patient’s condition.

Normalizes metabolism in joint capsules and cartilage. Promotes the restoration of cartilage, due to which the mobility of the affected joints is restored and pain is reduced. Available in capsule form.

The effect of the drug lasts for 6 months. At the same time, the result depends on the degree of cartilage damage.

used in the treatment of osteochondrosis. It can be produced either independently or as components of other drugs. The action is justified by the ability to restore the main complexes of cartilage tissue. At the same time, the drug itself in its pure form penetrates very difficultly through the cellular barrier. To obtain a more pronounced effect, magnetophoresis or monophoresis is used.