GLUCOSAMINE SUPPLEMENT LINKED TO FASTER ALZHEIMER'S PROGRESSION

Scientists at University of Florida have identified a potential link between glucosamine, a widely used joint pain supplement, and accelerated progression of Alzheimer's disease. Research published in Nature Metabolism on 9 June found that people with mild cognitive impairment who reported taking glucosamine were more likely to develop dementia than those who did not use the supplement. The findings came from analysis of patient records and brain imaging studies conducted in human tissue and mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. The study does not prove that glucosamine causes dementia and requires confirmation through clinical trials.

The research team, led by Ramon Sun at the Centre for Advanced Spatial Biomolecule Research and McKnight Brain Institute, used artificial intelligence to analyse deidentified medical records from UF Health collected between 2012 and 2024. The analysis focused on patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias or mild cognitive impairment. Glucosamine use proved common amongst both patient groups studied. The results add to growing evidence that disruptions in metabolism may play an important role in neurodegenerative diseases.

Approximately 7 million people in the United States live with Alzheimer's disease, with millions more affected by related dementias including Lewy body and frontotemporal dementia. Glucosamine's widespread availability as an over-the-counter supplement and frequent use amongst older adults to support joint health made it the focus of investigation. The findings suggest that people currently taking glucosamine should consult healthcare providers about potential risks associated with the supplement.