Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance formed of sugar chains. Chondroitin is believed to help the body maintain fluid and flexibility in the joints.

Glucosamine is sugar protein that helps your body build cartilage (the hard connective tissue located mainly on the bones near your joints). Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance found in bones, bone marrow, shellfish and fungus.

Cosamin DS is a combination product that has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating osteoarthritis pain.

Other uses not proven with research have included treating rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, cataracts, glaucoma, bladder problems, heart disease, high cholesterol, or TMJ (temporomandibular joint disease).

Cosamin DS is a joint supplement that is not intended for medicinal use and has not been approved by the FDA because of its classification as a supplement. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Cosamin DS is often sold as a joint supplement. Companies that produce quality joint supplements may chose to have their products and manufacturing sites independently tested and certified, to ensure the quality and safety of their products. These certified products would be labelled accordingly by the manufacturer. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Cosamin DS may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of joint supplements.

If you choose to use Cosamin DS, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different formulations of chondroitin and glucosamine at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of chondroitin and glucosamine.

If you need surgery or dental work, stop taking Cosamin DS at least 2 weeks ahead of time.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Cosamin DS does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to Cosamin DS; or

• if you take warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• asthma;

• an allergy to shellfish (oyster, crab, shrimp);

• diabetes;

• high blood pressure, high cholesterol;

• prostate cancer; or

• bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia.

Ask a doctor before using Cosamin DS if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any joint supplement to a child without medical advice.

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra Cosamin DS to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Cosamin DS and call your healthcare provider at once if you have:

• irregular heartbeats; or

• swelling in your legs.

Common side effects of Cosamin DS may include:

• nausea, diarrhea, constipation;

• stomach pain, gas, bloating;

• hair loss; or

• puffy eyelids.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Other drugs may affect Cosamin DS, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.