New generation chondroprotectors: description and comparison of drugs

How do chondroprotectors work?

Chondroprotectors are the general name for drugs, including dietary supplements, that help restore cartilage tissue and protect it from subsequent destruction. The main active ingredients of the group of chondroprotectors are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate; the preparations also include auxiliary substances: vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Do chondroprotectors help? A course of medication normalizes the structure of cartilage tissue, relieves inflammation and relieves pain.

Since the action of active substances is aimed at regenerating damaged tissues, at least a small cartilage layer must be present in the joint.

To get relief from pain as quickly as possible, it can be taken together with analgesics.

Why are chondroprotectors needed?

The main goal of drugs from the group of chondroprotectors is to normalize the protein composition of cartilage, speed up its recovery after damage or stop the process of its destruction. A side goal of chondroprotectors is to eliminate symptoms associated with diseases of cartilage tissue.

Almost all chondroprotectors have, in parallel with the main effect, also anti-inflammatory, analgesic and decongestant properties, that is, properties characteristic of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (for example, diclofenac or piroxicam). At the same time, chondroprotectors are devoid of those dangerous and frequent side effects that all NSAIDs have.

To put it briefly, chondroprotectors fight diseases of cartilage tissue in two directions: they restore the structure of cartilage and alleviate a person’s condition, improving his quality of life. It is not always possible to complete long-term treatment if the effect is not immediately noticeable. In the case of chondroprotectors, some positive changes appear immediately after the start of treatment and thus create an incentive to continue treatment further.

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Classification of drugs

Chondroprotectors can be divided into several groups:

By time of appearance in medicine

• First generation drugs based on natural ingredients - plant extracts and animal cartilage. Produced in the form of ointments, injection ampoules and tablets.
• The second generation includes chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine and hyaluronic acid (preparations).
• Third generation chondroprotectors for joints are combined preparations based on chondroitin sulfate and hydrochloride.

By composition

• based on chondroitin (Hondrex, Structum);
• mucopolysaccharides (“Arteparon”);
• with natural extract of animal cartilage (“Alflutop”, “Rumalon”);
• with glucosamine (“Dona”, “Artron Flex”);
• with a complex effect – are considered the most effective chondroprotectors (“Teraflex”, “Formula-C”).

By release form

• Chondroprotectors in injections are injection compositions of maximum efficiency and rapid action, which are used at the initial stage of therapy. The course consists of 10-20 procedures, then intramuscular injections are replaced with tablets (Adgelon, Elbona, Moltrex).
• Chondroprotectors in tablets are characterized by a cumulative effect, the results appear no earlier than 2 months. The optimal period of admission is within six months. They are well tolerated and have virtually no side effects (“Teraflex”, “Dona”, “Arthra”).
• Intra-articular fluid substitute - injected directly into the affected joint in a course of up to 5 injections. Repeated treatment is possible after six months.

Modern medicine knows a wide list of drugs with a targeted effect on the joints, but only a doctor can choose the right individual treatment.

Which chondroprotectors to choose for the treatment of joints

The pathogenesis of most degenerative and dystrophic diseases of the joints and spine is based on the destruction of intra-articular cartilage tissue, the condition of which determines the stage of the disease and its symptoms.
Modern medicine has found a way to have a therapeutic effect on intra-articular cartilage - these are chondroprotectors for joints. These medications are designed to stop the progression of pathological changes and, if possible, restore damaged cartilage. It should immediately be noted that the effect of such treatment will be observed only in the case of the initial stage of the disease; in advanced cases of arthrosis, even the best chondroprotectors (CP) will be ineffective, since there is nothing left to restore in the joint (all cartilage tissue has already been destroyed).

Mechanism of action of chondroprotectors

To understand how these medications help with joint diseases, for which pathology they will be effective, and for which treatment will be ineffective, it is necessary to understand how human joints are structured and what the role of cartilage tissue is.

The basis of all arthritic joint diseases is the destruction of cartilage tissue

How are joint cartilages structured?

All articular surfaces of the bones that form the joint are covered with cartilage tissue. Intervertebral discs are also made of it. The surface of the cartilage is smooth and constantly moisturized due to a special intra-articular lubricant - synovial fluid. By the way, nutrition of cartilage tissue also occurs due to the diffusion of substances from this liquid, since cartilage does not have its own blood vessels.

The main function of cartilage is to ensure smooth movements in the joint, in which the cartilaginous surfaces of the bones slide against one another; this process is also facilitated by intra-articular lubrication.

Structure of cartilage tissue:

1. Cells (chondroblasts and chondrocytes). These are young and mature cells of cartilage tissue. They produce an intercellular substance, a matrix, which makes up the bulk of cartilage. There are much fewer cells here.
2. The intercellular substance of cartilage is characterized by high hydrophilic ability - it binds water molecules, which make up up to 80% of the matrix. The intercellular substance consists of collagen fibers and chondromucoid. It is the latter substance that is responsible for the integrity, strength, shape and function of the hyaline cartilage of the joint. It contains substances such as chondroitin and glucosamines (structural units of cartilage tissue).

The destruction of cartilage (regardless of the root cause) begins precisely with a decrease in the amount of glucosamines and chondroitin, which leads to the disintegration of cartilage tissue, the appearance of roughness on its surface, cracking and a decrease in the thickness of the cartilage. In connection with this or in parallel, the production of synovial fluid rich in hyaluronic acid decreases, which further aggravates the condition.

Movements in the joint become painful, the articular surfaces of the bones become exposed, which leads to the development of arthrosis and osteochondrosis with all the ensuing consequences.

Point of application for chondroprotectors

Chondroprotective drugs, when prescribed in a timely manner, can stop the destruction of cartilage tissue and, to some extent, even restore the damaged structure of the cartilage. The fact is that their composition is based on the aforementioned chondroitin and glucosamines, which, when entering the body, begin to “integrate” into damaged cartilage, thus restoring their structure and function.

Action of the main components of chondroprotectors

Classification of chondroprotectors

Chondroprotectors can be divided according to three criteria:

• by composition;
• by generation of medicine;
• according to the method of administration.

Types of chondroprotectors depending on composition

1. CPs that contain chondroitin sulfate (Chondroxid, Mucosat, Chondrolone, Chondroitin, Structum, Artron Chondrex, Chondroitin-phytopharm).
2. HP that contain glucosamine (Artron flex, Flexamine glucosamine, Dona).
3. Combined CP (chondroitin + glucosamine) – Artron complex, Teraflex, Chondroitin complex.
4. Combined CP (chondroitin and/or glucosamine + NSAIDs - ibuprofen, diclofenac) - Triactiv, Artron, Movex, Advance, Artrodar.
5. CP, which is an extract of animal cartilage and bone marrow (Alflutop, Rumalon).

Types of chondroprotectors depending on generation

1. The first generation is not purified extracts from animal cartilage and bone marrow. At this time, only Alflutop is used. Has a large number of allergic reactions.
2. The second generation is mono-preparations based on glucosamine or chondroitin, which are listed above.
3. The third generation is combination drugs.
4. Separately, it is worth highlighting hyaluronic acid for intra-articular injections (Ostenil, Fermatron, Sinokrom, Viskosil, Suplazin, Sinvisk).

Sinokrom is a hyaluronic acid preparation for intra-articular administration, not related to CP, but a liquid transplant of synovial fluid

Types of chondroprotectors depending on the method of administration

1. HP for oral administration (tablets, capsules) – Structum, Artra, Teraflex. They are well tolerated by patients and cause virtually no side effects. The effectiveness of oral forms is low, since most of the active substance is lost during metabolic changes.
2. HP in the form of injections (intramuscular and intraarticular) - Alflutop, Dona, all hyaluronic acid preparations. More often they cause allergic reactions and complications associated with the injection, but their effectiveness is much higher.
3. HP for external use (ointments, gels, creams) – Chondroxide. It is used only in complex treatment.

How to choose a drug?

Answering the question of how to choose a chondroprotector drug for the treatment of joints is not so simple. Firstly, the range of such medications on the modern pharmaceutical market is quite large. Secondly, the price of such treatment is very high, and given the need for a long course, which can reach a year or a year and a half, for some patients the cost becomes prohibitive. Thirdly, the effect of treatment with chondroprotectors does not occur immediately (the first positive signs can be noticed after 3-4 months of regular use).

Considering all of the above, before purchasing these medications, you should definitely consult with your doctor, who will determine whether there is really a need for such therapy and which drug is most suitable in your case.

However, in order to somehow navigate the choice, it is necessary to evaluate chondroprotective drugs according to the following criteria.

Mono-drug or combined?

From the above classification of CP, it is clear that they can be single-component (mono-drugs) or combined. As a rule, the combination consists of two main substances - chondroitin and glucosamine; there are no others yet. Some drugs also contain a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Ibuprofen or Diclofenac).

It would seem that it is better to choose a medicine that contains both glucosamine and chondroitin, because both of these substances are equally important for the body. But in practice, there are some nuances to this choice: some sources of information claim that mono-drugs are more effective, while others talk about the benefits of combination drugs.

Why are there such different opinions? Firstly, chondroprotectors are “young” drugs (the experience of their use is about 10-15 years). Secondly, the interest of pharmaceutical companies producing chondroprotectors plays a big role. It is known that in order to bring one drug to market, billions of dollars are needed (the cost of clinical and other types of research, advertising campaign, etc.). Therefore, often the information obtained as a result of research sponsored by a certain company is not always true.

The recommendation is this: first of all, you need to address this question to a practicing arthrologist who, based on his experience in using these drugs and knowledge, will be able to advise a truly effective CP. Patient reviews of a particular drug will also provide excellent help.

Company manufacturer

This is a very important selection criterion, because a well-known and respected pharmaceutical concern all over the world can afford the most expensive and precise equipment, modern drug manufacturing technologies, a high degree of drug purification and real clinical studies of the effectiveness of drugs, unlike unknown factories.

By purchasing branded drugs rather than generics, you can be sure that for your money you will receive only high-quality medicine, which will minimize all side effects, allergic reactions and ineffective therapy.

Artra is a combined chondroprotector with a large evidence base and a well-known manufacturer

Medicine or dietary supplement?

If a chondroprotector claims to be a medical product, then there must be clinical studies that confirm its effectiveness, composition, indications, contraindications, side effects, etc.

In the case of a dietary supplement (BAA), this is not at all necessary. But you must understand that then there can be no talk about the chemical purity of the drug, the amount of active substance that is in one tablet (and it may not be there at all), or the effectiveness of such treatment.

The instructions for the drug are your main “weapon” - be sure to read it before purchasing. It indicates whether the drug is a dietary supplement or a medicine.

Despite the fact that Toad Stone is a dietary supplement, you can find many positive patient reviews about it

Disease stage

As already mentioned, CPs are effective only in the initial stage of the disease (stages 1 and 2 of arthrosis, osteochondrosis). If your pathological process has already gone far (stages 3 and 4), then there is no longer any reason to take chondroprotectors, since the cartilage tissue is completely destroyed. But these medications are not capable of restoring it.

Indications and prohibitions for use

Indications for the use of chondroprotectors are:

• deforming osteoarthritis stage 1-2 (including coxarthrosis, gonarthrosis);
• spinal osteochondrosis in the initial stages;
• prevention of joint degenerative diseases in people at risk (age after 50 years, athletes, people who have occupational hazards - heavy physical work or, conversely, long stay in one position, people with excess body weight, after an injury, people with other diseases of the musculoskeletal system, with endocrinological and metabolic disorders).

Contraindications to the prescription of CP are individual intolerance to the components, pregnancy and lactation.

List of recommendations

The doctor determines which medicine and how to take it correctly. But even the most modern drug will not be effective for advanced disease.

As measures accompanying medication intake, the patient is recommended to:

• do not overload the sore joint;
• get rid of excess weight;
• limit the mobility of the damaged joint;
• engage in physical therapy;
• rest;
• avoid hypothermia of hands and feet;
• take regular walks.

Indications

Chondroprotectors are taken for pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.

1. Osteochondrosis is a group of diseases associated with intervertebral disc degeneration.
2. Spondylosis is the degeneration of ligaments and the formation of osteophytes.
3. Spondyloarthritis.
4. All diseases of the initial stage of joints: arthritis, arthrosis, coxarthrosis.
5. Intra-articular fractures, injuries.
6. Sprain.

But not only tendons, ligaments, joints and spine need them, but aging skin that loses natural collagen also requires restoration. Therefore, cosmetology cannot do without them.

For what diseases are chondroprotectors prescribed?

Osteochondrosis

For this pathology, oral forms of medications are prescribed, which have a cumulative effect and gradually restore cartilage tissue. The maximum result is achieved with complex therapy.

Coxarthrosis

The best option is the latest generation of drugs, which include glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. They accelerate tissue regeneration, improving metabolism.

Arthrosis

In this case, in addition to injectable joint fluid substitutes, chondroprotectors are prescribed that stimulate the production of the synovium's own and normalize its lubricating properties.

Arthritis

Drugs are prescribed in various forms that reduce swelling, joint stiffness and pain. The course of therapy is accompanied by the use of anti-inflammatory and painkillers.

If large joints are damaged, in the acute stage, chondroprotectors in ampoules for injection into the site of inflammation are most effective.

Chondroprotectors: classification

Like everything in life, chondroprotectors have their own improvements.

1. In the first generation, the composition of the drugs was purely natural (animal cartilage, plants). Rumalon, Alflutop.
2. In the second, the drugs were divided into separate types containing glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate.
3. In the third generation, drugs are based on hydrochloride in combination with chondroitin sulfate and additionally containing vitamins and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Chondroprotectors: list of drugs

After studying the patient's medical history and symptoms, the doctor determines which drug is most effective. He also weighs the pros and cons of chondroprotectors for prescribing or refusing to use them.

"Artradol"

A drug that improves metabolic processes in tissues, due to which they are restored and the destruction of connective fibers is inhibited. Production: Russia.

"Arthra"

One of the most effective remedies for the treatment of osteochondrosis and arthrosis based on chondroitin and glucosamine. This chondroprotector is suitable for people with diabetes and bronchial asthma, but has age restrictions - it can be taken from 15 years of age. The effect of the medicine is confirmed not only by research, but also by good ratings. Production: USA.

The most effective

Chondroprotectors have shown good effectiveness in therapeutic practice:

• Alflutop;
• Structum;
• Mucosat;
• Chondroxide;
• Don;
• Fermatron;
• Artra;
• Teraflex.

Alflutop

One of the most prescribed first-generation chondroprotectors in the form of an injection solution. Contains a bioactive concentrate obtained from various marine organisms. The concentrate contains: chondroitin sulfate, polypeptides, amino acids, mucopolysaccharides, minerals, hyaluronic acid.

The active components of the product normalize metabolism in joint tissues and activate the restoration of cartilage. Thanks to this, in patients with arthrosis, the intensity of pain, swelling, and the severity of contractures (limited mobility) are noticeably reduced. The anti-inflammatory effect is achieved within a week after the start of therapy, and after a six-month course of treatment, the amount of synovial fluid in the joint capsule doubles, thereby preventing further destruction of the joint structures.

If several small joints are affected, the drug is prescribed 1 ml intramuscularly. Injections are given once a day for 20 days. For arthrosis of large joints, 5-6 intra-articular injections are performed (single dose 1 ml or 2 ml) with a break of 3-4 days. Then the drug is administered intramuscularly for 20 days. Six months later, the course is repeated.

Fermatron

A solution for intra-articular injection based on sodium hyaluronate helps relieve severe pain and improves mobility in the inflamed joint. Prescribed for all forms and stages of arthrosis.

Injection of the solution into the joint is carried out once every 7 days. The full therapeutic course is 3-5 injections.

Don

Dona contains glucosamine in the form of sulfate, is available in the form of an injection solution (additionally containing the anesthetic lidocaine), powder for the preparation of an oral solution (1.5 g of active ingredient each), tablets (750 mg each). The drug has an anti-inflammatory effect, normalizes metabolic processes and enzymatic activity in joint tissues, stimulates the production of synovial fluid, and promotes cartilage regeneration.

The injection solution is administered intramuscularly three times a week for 1-1.5 months. To achieve the maximum therapeutic effect, oral dosage forms are simultaneously prescribed. Powders are recommended to be taken once a day, and tablets 1 or 2 times a day, depending on the severity of inflammation.

Mucosat

An injection solution based on chondroitin sulfate (100 mg and 200 mg each) reduces inflammation, improves metabolism, stimulates recovery and slows down the destruction of cartilage. Relieves the symptoms of arthrosis and improves the mobility of the diseased joint. It begins to act 2-3 weeks after the start of therapy. After completing the course, the effect lasts from 3 to 6 months.

Effects of drugs on joints

Chondroprotectors do not act on the symptoms of the pathology, but directly on the source, which led to the destruction of the joints. Thus, taking such drugs significantly relieves pain, improves the condition of cartilage, and also relieves the inflammatory process.

It is worth noting that the formation of new bone tissue does not occur when taking chondroprotectors, but they contribute to the restoration of already damaged tissue. For this reason, therapy with such drugs will give a positive result in cases where there is preserved cartilage.

The active substance of the chondroprotector is immediately absorbed into the blood after use. At the same time, the drug accumulates in the tissues and joints of the joints, breaking the cellular barrier. To make it easy for the drug to overcome cell resistance, the drug is used in addition to other components or physical therapy.

The effectiveness of therapy lasts up to a month, after which it is necessary to undergo a new course of treatment. Side effects are observed in a very small number of patients, therefore, as a rule, chondroprotectors are taken simultaneously both in the form of tablets, ointments and injections. This allows you to significantly speed up the effect of treatment. It is only important to take into account the compatibility of different drugs.

New generation chondroprotectors and their advantages

Currently, in the treatment of joints that have undergone degenerative changes, preference is increasingly given to chondroprotectors of the third, most recent generation. These products have a wide spectrum of action and allow you to restore even severely worn cartilage.

The main advantage of drugs in this group is their mixed composition. Thanks to this, the drugs act faster, and the positive trend continues even after stopping the course of therapy.

Among the most popular new generation chondroprotectors the following are mentioned:
• Theraflex is a drug for oral administration with chondroitin and glucosamine. In addition to its restorative effect, this drug is able to inhibit the activity of enzymes in the joint cavity that destroy the intra-articular surface.
• ArtronTriaktiv is a drug with three active ingredients, including an organic compound, a source of sulfur. This drug helps strengthen bones in general and also improves the condition of cartilage tissue. In addition to the classic set of degenerative pathologies (arthrosis, osteochondrosis), the remedy is effective for systemic skeletal diseases, including osteoporosis, various forms of arthritis and bursitis. The drug also helps to normalize the production of synovial fluid (if there is an excess of it, it inhibits synthesis, and if there is a deficiency, it stimulates it).

Despite the enormous benefits for joints, new generation chondroprotectors can cause harm to the body if there are contraindications. They can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

What are the best chondroprotectors?

Everyone who suffers from joint diseases is concerned about choosing a drug for their treatment. Let's say right away: the best chondroprotector does not exist and it cannot be said that the 1st generation drug is worse than the 2nd generation drug. For each person, a chondroprotector must be selected individually, taking into account the characteristics of his body, the stage and course of the pathological process, living conditions, habits, immune status and many other factors. In these matters, consultation with a specialist and, preferably, a nutritionist or arthrologist is necessary. Our specialists will be happy to answer all your questions.

Indications for use

Chondroprotectors are drugs aimed at regenerating cartilage tissue and replenishing joint fluid. Positive effects take a long time to achieve, so a long course of therapy is required. The following indications for use are distinguished:

• osteochondrosis
  - pathology of different parts of the spine (cervical, lumbar, thoracic) with thinning of the intervertebral discs, which leads to compression and inflammation of nerve fibers with the formation of severe pain;
• arthrosis
  - dystrophic changes in cartilage tissue, that is, disruption of tissue nutrition through blood vessels with a gradual slowdown in regeneration;
• arthritis
  is a painful condition caused by damage to the joints of an inflammatory nature, for example, rheumatism or spondylitis;
• various pathologies
  leading to a lack of synovial fluid, due to which the tissues of the articular cavity and bones are erased;
• cartilage damage
  due to injuries, bruises, fractures, postoperative recovery.

The drugs are sold in different forms. They produce tablets, capsules, and injection solutions. Only a doctor can choose the optimal drug, dose and method of administration for the patient. Chondroprotectors are not used independently. Indications for use are determined on the basis of radiography, ultrasound, puncture of joint fluid and other instrumental examination methods.

Which form of drugs is most effective?

As is already known, chondroprotectors come in three different forms: tablets, injections and ointments for external use. It is worth understanding that, regardless of the form, treatment of any joint disorders involves long-term therapy. Also, it takes time to restore destroyed cartilage tissue. All chondroprotectors act slowly, but relieve discomfort and pain for 3-6 months.

Tablets take longer than injections. You need to take the tablets for months, but as for injections, it is enough to undergo a short course of treatment. As for ointments, they rather act as an effective analgesic for pain. In this case, arthrologists prescribe therapy, usually in combination. Of course, everything depends on the degree of damage to the joint, but the effectiveness of the combined use of several means (injections, tablets and ointments) is quite high.

Injection chondroprotectors

The effect of using injections for joint diseases occurs quite quickly. To do this, you will need to take a course of a dozen or two dozen injections, up to 20 days, but the therapy does not end there. Then you must continue taking medications in tablet form.

Popular injection products:

• Aflutol (combined drug, injected directly into the joint cavity, every five days you need to take a break of several days, the duration of the entire course is 20 days)
• Noltrex (this is a kind of liquid joint endoprosthesis, the required dose is injected into the diseased joint in stages with breaks of a week, but the drug is expensive, since it is used only once a year)
• Chondrolone (the drug is administered intramuscularly, one ampoule every other day)
• Adgelon (used not only in orthopedics, but also in ophthalmology)

Chondroprotectors in tablet form

The tablets begin to have a positive effect on the joints only after a few months, and after 6 months a stable effect is achieved. Such drugs do not cause side effects.

The most effective chondroprotectors in tablets are:

• Dona (mono-drug of Italian origin)
• Struktrum (mono-drug, taken for six months, repeat course after 3 months)
• Artra (an American-made complex product that stands out among a number of analogues for its effectiveness during long-term use and safety for the body as a whole)
• Teraflex (combined drug, the effect is felt a month after taking the tablets)
• Piascledine (herbal preparation that acts directly on cartilage tissue, effectively restores and regenerates it)

External products

If the patient is very bothered by painful sensations, then the use of ointments is appropriate. But it is worth remembering that alone they will not cope with pathologies in the joint, but are used only in combination.

Chondroprotectors for external use:

• Chondroxide (plant-based mono-preparation obtained from bovine cartilage)
• Diclofenac (first generation anti-inflammatory drug, course of treatment up to 14 days)
• Dolgit (contains ibuprofen, has anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects)
• Ketonal gel (powerful pain reliever)
• Deep Relief (a complex drug that relieves pain, swelling and inflammation)

Contraindications and recommendations

In the announcement of the article, it is not without reason that chondroprotectors are called “miracle substances.” Almost the majority have no side effects, since they are based on analogues of the natural components of connective tissue that promote the synthesis of cartilage. The individual selection of such drugs for drawing up a treatment regimen should be carried out by a doctor.

Side effects may include increased sensitivity to drug components. Chondroitin and glycosamine have contraindications and are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Chondroitin sulfate is not used if the patient has bleeding, thrombophlebitis, glycosamine - if there is cardiac arrhythmia and diabetes mellitus.

Chondroprotectors are taken for a long time, in several courses of 2-3 months, the medicine must be regularly supplied to the body in a certain dose. It may take 1-1.5 years to obtain a noticeable effect from treatment, in some cases up to 3 years. This is explained by the slow processes of regeneration of cartilage tissue in joints.

The use of drugs makes sense only up to stage 3 of arthrosis: with complete destruction of cartilage with joint disability, it is impossible to obtain positive treatment results; such a patient is indicated for surgical treatment.

An effective method for arthrosis of the knee joints is intra-articular injections, for which chondroprotectors are available in ampoules. Often the course of treatment begins with intra-articular and intramuscular injections, and continues with taking tablets and using ointments, gels, creams containing dimexide (chondroxide).

Joint fluid substitutes (sodium hyaluronate) can slow the progression of the disease for a year, and in some cases are a long-term alternative to surgical joint replacement. When administered intra-articularly, the effectiveness of other chondroprotectors is half that of hyaluronic acid. However, hyaluronate is quickly destroyed in inflamed tissues, so intensive anti-inflammatory treatment of the joint is required before prescribing intra-articular injections.

Degenerative changes in joints are widespread among the world's inhabitants, affecting 10-15% of the population. It is impossible to cure arthrosis, like old age, but by consulting a doctor about this problem in time, you will prolong the performance and health of your joints.

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Medicines are selected only individually

Chondroprotectors belong to the new generation of drugs. Only a doctor can say which drugs from this group of drugs are the best, because these drugs must be selected for each patient strictly individually. The same medicine can have different effects on different categories of patients. For some people suffering from joint diseases, the effect of drug treatment occurs relatively quickly, while for others it will take a long time to feel improvement.

Chondroprotectors: indications and contraindications

The indications for these drugs are mainly the following: - osteochondrosis; - various joint injuries; - arthrosis of various etiologies (gonarthrosis, coxarthrosis, arthrosis of small joints...); - spondylosis (vertebral bone growths); - arthritis and periarthritis; — dystrophic pathological changes in joints; - periodontal disease; - rehabilitation period after surgery on the joints... General contraindications for chondroprotectors are as follows: - periods of pregnancy and lactation; - individual intolerance to the ingredients of the drug. For gastrointestinal diseases, chondroprotectors should be used with caution.

Features of the use of chondroprotectors

The use of chondroprotectors occurs first in the form of injections, then tablets and ointments. This occurs in combination in order to effectively influence the affected joint and actively restore it. Some ointments are never prescribed, since they are not able to penetrate inside the joint, and therefore are considered only an additional element in the entire therapy. During and after therapy, the patient receives a number of recommendations and preventive measures that he must adhere to throughout his life. First of all, this concerns reducing excess weight, if any.

It is also worth understanding that the drug is used for a long time, so therapy is designed for more than one month. In this case, it must be repeated after some certain time.