Glucosamine and chondroitin are two of the most popular joint health supplements, naturally found in cartilage and connective tissue. Together, they support cartilage repair, joint lubrication, and flexibility — making them a go-to choice for anyone dealing with joint stiffness, age-related wear, or recovery from high-impact activities. The best formulas combine both compounds with complementary ingredients like MSM, turmeric, and collagen for comprehensive joint support.
Quick Comparison
Product
Key Ingredients
Form
Best For
Rating
Nutra Disc & Joint Support
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Collagen
Capsules
Best Overall
9.5/10
Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Joint Support
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Turmeric
Capsules
Best Multi-Ingredient
9.4/10
Doctor’s Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM
Glucosamine 1500mg, Chondroitin 1200mg, OptiMSM
Capsules
Best Clinically Dosed
9.3/10
Nature Made Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM
Caplets
Best Trusted Brand
9.2/10
NOW Foods Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM
Glucosamine 1100mg, Chondroitin 1200mg, MSM
Veg Capsules
Best Value
9.0/10
Move Free Advanced Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM
Tablets
Best for Mobility
8.9/10
Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Collagen 2800mg
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Collagen
Capsules
Best with Collagen
8.8/10
1. Nutra Disc & Joint Support – Best Overall
Nutra Disc & Joint Support Supplement – Clinically Formulated Restorative Cartilage Ligament and Tendon Supplement with Patented Meriva Curcumin & Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Adults – 90 Servings
Professional Formula: We are proud to offer our one of a kind soft tissue and joint supplements for men and women featuring the reparative Z-Pro Enzyme blend with proprietary proteolytic Serrazimes
Elevate your Comfort: Feel the Nutra Disc difference with our joint tendon and ligament supplements based on clinical studies showing the positive effects of protease enzymes for speeding up recovery
Anabolic Advantage: Unlike generic ligament and tendon supplements for men & women our caps were specifically made for practitioners so you can rest assured you’re getting professional grade products
Trusted Name Since 1924: Anabolic Laboratories has been committed to providing the highest quality nutritional products for 100 years and counting including our glucosamine chondroitin capsules
Guaranteed Potent and Pure: You can rest assured knowing you have a premium product with Anabolic Labs as all of our supplements are cGMP made in our NPA and FDA inspected American labs
Nutra Disc delivers a clinically formulated restorative joint support supplement that combines glucosamine and chondroitin with additional cartilage-supporting compounds for comprehensive disc and joint health.
This formula goes beyond standard glucosamine chondroitin by including ingredients specifically targeted at cartilage and disc health, making it particularly useful for back and spinal joint support in addition to knees, hips, and hands. The clinical formulation is designed for restorative cartilage and ligament support. Each bottle provides a full month’s supply in capsule form.
Pros:
Clinically formulated for both joint and disc health
Includes additional cartilage-supporting compounds beyond basic glucosamine/chondroitin
Targeted support for back and spinal joints
Cons:
Premium pricing compared to basic glucosamine chondroitin formulas
Multiple capsules per serving
Best for: Anyone seeking comprehensive joint and disc support, especially for back, spine, and weight-bearing joints
2. Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Joint Support – Best Multi-Ingredient
Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Joint Support Supplement – Collagen Peptides, Turmeric and Ginger, Hyaluronic Acid, Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate for Joint Comfort – Gluten Free, Non GMO, 180 Capsules
Triple Strength Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Supplement – Our joint health supplement includes glucosamine chondroitin sulfate and msm, collagen, turmeric, ginger, hyaluronic acid and Fruitex-B, offering unparalleled support for joint health and mobility
Move With Confidence – Our joint support supplement is formulated to support healthy joints, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and connective tissues
The FruiteX-B Difference – Our exclusive formula includes FruiteX-B, a patented vegan mineral complex called calcium fructoborate shown to enhance joint mobility and comfort
Premium Quality Standards – We hold our products to higher standards; that’s why our msm chondroitin & glucosamine nutritional supplements are manufactured in the USA with the finest globally sourced ingredients, following strict cGMP guidelines
Whats Not In It Matters Too – Our glucosamine msm chondroitin supplement is free of gluten, soy, milk, dairy, egg, corn, wheat, and other unnecessary ingredients
This all-in-one joint formula combines glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM with collagen peptides, turmeric, ginger, and hyaluronic acid for the most comprehensive joint support stack in a single product.
By including six key joint-supporting ingredients in one supplement, this formula covers cartilage repair (glucosamine and chondroitin), sulfur supply for connective tissue (MSM), structural protein support (collagen peptides), natural inflammation balance (turmeric and ginger), and joint lubrication (hyaluronic acid). The formula delivers clinical doses across all ingredients for meaningful results. Each bottle contains enough capsules for a 30-day supply.
Pros:
Six joint-supporting ingredients replace multiple separate supplements
Includes turmeric and ginger for natural inflammation support
Hyaluronic acid and collagen for joint lubrication and structural support
Cons:
Large serving size (multiple capsules) due to comprehensive formula
Contains shellfish (glucosamine source)
Best for: Anyone who wants a comprehensive all-in-one joint supplement that replaces multiple separate products
3. Doctor’s Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM – Best Clinically Dosed
Doctor’s Best Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM – Joint Health Support Supplement for Women & Men, Nutritional Support for Joint Strength, Hair, Skin, & Nails, Gluten Free, Non GMO – 240 Capsules
CHONDROITIN & GLUCOSAMINE NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENT: Our formula combines Glucosamine, Chondroitin, & MSM(OptiMSM) for comprehensive support for joint health & beauty support for hair, skin, & nails
JOINT SUPPORT SUPPLEMENT: Each daily serving delivers 1000 mg of MSM, 1500 mg of Glucosamine, 1200 mg of Chondroitin. These work together to help promote healthy cartilage as part of a balanced diet
ENHANCES FLEXIBILITY AND MOBILITY: This joint supplement for women and men combines a synergistic blend of ingredients to help support joint comfort and flexibility, promoting an active lifestyle
SUGGESTED ADULT USE: Take 4 capsules daily with food, or as recommended by a nutritionally informed physician. Our joint health support supplement is non-GMO, gluten free, and soy free
DOCTOR’S BEST: Good nutrition starts with sound science. For over 35 years, we have been dedicated to providing only thoroughly researched, rigorously tested, and clinically-approved supplements
Doctor’s Best provides clinical dosages of all three core joint ingredients — 1500mg glucosamine, 1200mg chondroitin, and 1000mg OptiMSM — matching the exact amounts used in major joint health studies.
This formula delivers the gold-standard doses that clinical research has established as effective: 1500mg glucosamine sulfate, 1200mg chondroitin sulfate, and 1000mg MSM using the patented OptiMSM form, which is purified via distillation for the highest purity and consistency. Doctor’s Best has been in the supplement industry for over 35 years and provides transparent labeling with no proprietary blends. The 240-capsule bottle supplies a 60-day supply at the recommended 4-capsule daily dose.
Pros:
Clinical dosages matching published joint health research (1500/1200/1000mg)
Patented OptiMSM for highest purity MSM available
240-capsule bottle provides a full 60-day supply
Cons:
Requires 4 capsules per day for full clinical dose
Contains shellfish-derived glucosamine
Best for: Evidence-focused consumers who want clinically researched dosages of all three core joint health ingredients
4. Nature Made Glucosamine Chondroitin Complex with MSM – Best Trusted Brand
No products found.
Nature Made brings USP-verified quality to the glucosamine chondroitin category, with every batch tested and verified for ingredients, potency, and manufacturing process by an independent organization.
This formula provides glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM in a USP-verified caplet — meaning it has been independently tested to confirm that the product contains what the label says, meets quality standards, and was manufactured properly. Nature Made is the #1 pharmacist-recommended vitamin and supplement brand. The 120-caplet bottle provides a 60-day supply. The formula is gluten-free with no synthetic dyes or artificial flavors.
Pros:
USP verified for ingredient accuracy, potency, and manufacturing quality
#1 pharmacist-recommended supplement brand
Gluten-free with no synthetic dyes or artificial flavors
Cons:
Caplets are relatively large and may be hard to swallow
Lower individual ingredient doses compared to premium competitors
Best for: Consumers who prioritize third-party verification and brand trust when choosing joint supplements
5. NOW Foods Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM – Best Value
NOW Foods Supplements, Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM, Joint Health, Mobility and Comfort*, 180 Veg Capsules
Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM combines three of the best known nutrients available for the support of healthy joints in one dietary supplement*
Studies have demonstrated that Glucosamine and Chondroitin can promote normal joint mobility and comfort*
MSM is present as a naturally occurring sulfur compound for optimal nutritional support for the production of healthy joint structures*
Take 3 capsules daily
Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968.
NOW Foods delivers generous doses of glucosamine (1100mg), chondroitin (1200mg), and MSM (300mg) in 180 vegetarian capsules at one of the best prices in the category.
NOW is a family-owned company that has been producing quality supplements since 1968, and their glucosamine chondroitin formula reflects that legacy of value. The formula provides GMP-certified quality in a 180-capsule bottle for a 60-day supply. NOW uses glucosamine from shellfish sources paired with bovine-derived chondroitin sulfate. The vegetarian capsules make this a more digestible alternative to tablets for many users.
Pros:
Excellent price-to-quantity ratio with 180 capsules per bottle
High chondroitin dose at 1200mg matching clinical recommendations
GMP-certified family-owned manufacturer since 1968
Cons:
MSM dose is lower at 300mg compared to competitors offering 1000mg+
Contains shellfish allergen
Best for: Budget-conscious consumers who want reliable glucosamine chondroitin from a trusted legacy brand
6. 5-Day Fast-Acting Joint Health – Best Fast-Acting
purmeo 5-Day Fast-Acting Joint Health Supplement – Support for Comfort, Cartilage, Strength & Flexibility – OVOMET Eggshell Membrane Glucosamine Chondroitin, MSM & Boswellia – Made in Germany, 120ct
OVOMET DELIVERS FASTER RELIEF: Clinically proven to reduce joint discomfort within 5 days. Verified by the Department of Production, Quality & R&D at Eggnovo SL, Spain
LOW DOSAGE, HIGH EFFICIENCY: Purmeo OptiTrans joint supplement uses 200mg of patented OVOMET eggshell membrane to reduce marine-sourced glucosamine by 80%, lowering purines while maintaining efficacy. OVOMET also features low sodium and is free from chemicals, which is heart- and brain-friendly. The eggshell membrane is packed with over 100 nutrients, including collagen and protein for joint & cartilage health
COMPREHENSIVE FORMULA: Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate work to strengthen joints and healthy cartilage, providing crucial cushioning and lubrication while promoting collagen regeneration. The formula also includes MSM to help relieve pain and boswellia extract to effectively alleviate joint discomfort, promoting comfortable movement. These nutrients work synergistically to restore joint health, resulting in enhanced mobility, comfort, strength, flexibility, and lubrication
CHOOSE RIGHT GLUCOSAMINE: Glucosamine Sulfate absorbs 70% better than glucosamine hydrochloride. We avoid hydrochloride to prevent stomach irritation, giving you more effective and comfortable joint support. It supports the health of knees, hips, and other joints. Alowing you to actively participate in daily activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs, and swimming
PHARMA-GRADE & SAFE: Traceable PZN 17148735. Manufactured in Germany in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility, and regulated by German pharmacies under strict HACCP and IFS standards. 120 capsules, 60 days supply. Recommended course: 2 bottles
This fast-acting formula is designed to deliver noticeable joint comfort improvements within 5 days, using targeted ingredients for rapid support of cartilage, strength, and flexibility.
Unlike traditional glucosamine chondroitin supplements that require weeks to build up, this formula is engineered for faster results through a combination of fast-absorbing joint support compounds. The product targets comfort, cartilage health, and joint strength through a specialized delivery system. This makes it a strong option for those who want to feel a difference quickly rather than waiting the typical 4-8 weeks associated with standard glucosamine supplementation.
Pros:
Designed for noticeable results within 5 days
Targets multiple aspects of joint health simultaneously
Fast-absorbing formula for quicker onset of benefits
Cons:
May need to be combined with long-term glucosamine for sustained support
Higher per-serving cost due to specialized formulation
Best for: Anyone who needs quick joint relief and doesn’t want to wait weeks for traditional glucosamine to take effect
7. Move Free Advanced Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM – Best for Mobility
Source Naturals L-Tryptophan, for Mood, Relaxation, and Sleep*, 500mg – 120 Capsules
The essential amino acid l-tryptophan helps support relaxation, restful sleep, and positive mood.*
l-Tryptophan also supports immune functions because it is the body’s precursor to the kynurenines that regulate immunity.
Suggested Use: 1 capsule three times daily, between meals and preferably with fruit juice. To support restful sleep, take an additional 3 capsules before bed.*
Over 40 Years of Trust. Source Naturals was created in 1982 by CEO Ira Goldberg to support everyone’s potential to enjoy optimal health.
Manufactured in the USA. Manufactured in Scots Valley, CA, under the Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) established by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Move Free is one of the most recognized joint health brands in America, delivering a trusted glucosamine chondroitin MSM formula specifically designed to support mobility, comfort, strength, and flexibility.
Move Free Advanced combines glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM in coated tablets that are designed for easier swallowing. The brand has decades of market presence and extensive consumer trust for joint health supplementation. Each bottle provides 120 tablets for a 40-day supply. Move Free products are widely available and frequently recommended by healthcare providers for daily joint maintenance.
Pros:
One of the most trusted and recognized joint supplement brands
Coated tablets designed for easier swallowing
Widely available in pharmacies and retail stores
Cons:
Individual ingredient amounts not as transparent as some competitors
Tablets are still relatively large despite coating
Best for: Anyone who wants a trusted, widely available joint supplement for daily mobility and comfort support
8. Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Collagen 2800mg – Best with Collagen
Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Collagen | HSA | Joint Support Supplement 2800 mg | Made in USA | FSA Approved Product Items | Flexibility Nutritional Vitamins | For Men & Women, 120 Capsules
Cartilage & Ligaments — Blended for people of all ages and activity levels, this supplement supports the health and function of joints, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. It helps maintain flexibility and strength, making it ideal for those looking to stay active & mobile.
Fit, Flexible & Healthy Body — MSM Glucosamine plays a vital role in supporting connective tissues. MSM, a natural source of sulfur, plays a key role in maintaining healthy joints & helps to support the structure and function of these tissues in the body. It is beneficial during physical exertion and makes your workouts safe & effective for your body.
Sugar, Soy & GMO-free — Glucosamine joint supplements are manufactured in the USA with globally sourced ingredients & with advanced technology to ensure the finest quality and purity. We do not use any sugar, fragrances, or preservatives, so your supplement is safe & made to industrial standards only for the good of your body.
Made in USA With Globally Sourced Ingredients — Glucosamine capsules are proudly manufactured in the USA under strict quality control standards, laboratory-controlled quality & GMP certified. We adhere to rigorous procedures to ensure every batch’s safety, purity, and efficacy. We use the most potent forms of each component to achieve the maximum effect!
Trustworthy Service — We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and transparency with NUTRAHARMONY’s carefully selected joint support supplements! With Glucosamine Chondroitin, you can trust that you’re receiving a premium-quality supplement backed by scientific research and dedicated customer support!
This high-potency 2800mg formula adds collagen to the classic glucosamine-chondroitin-MSM stack, providing structural protein support for joints, cartilage, and connective tissue in a single supplement.
By combining 2800mg of total joint-supporting ingredients including collagen alongside glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, this formula addresses both the structural and maintenance aspects of joint health. Collagen provides the building blocks for cartilage and connective tissue, while glucosamine and chondroitin support cartilage repair and hydration. The product is made in the USA, HSA/FSA eligible, and comes in a 120-capsule bottle.
Pros:
High total potency at 2800mg per serving
Added collagen for structural joint and cartilage support
HSA/FSA eligible for flexible spending accounts
Cons:
Multiple capsules required per daily serving
Collagen dose may be modest compared to standalone collagen products
Best for: Those who want collagen included in their glucosamine chondroitin supplement for comprehensive structural joint support
How to Choose the Best Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplement
Clinical research supports specific dosages for glucosamine and chondroitin that you should look for on the label. The most commonly studied and recommended doses are 1500mg of glucosamine sulfate and 1200mg of chondroitin sulfate daily. Products that provide these amounts are matching the doses used in major clinical trials, including the landmark NIH-funded GAIT study. MSM is typically included at 1000mg per day in the most effective formulas.
The form of glucosamine matters. Glucosamine sulfate is the most studied form and is used in the majority of clinical research. Glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl) is an alternative that’s shellfish-free but has less clinical evidence. If you have a shellfish allergy, look specifically for vegetarian or shellfish-free glucosamine products, as most standard formulas derive glucosamine from crab, shrimp, and lobster shells.
Consider complementary ingredients that enhance the basic formula. Turmeric and boswellia support a healthy inflammatory response, hyaluronic acid promotes joint lubrication, collagen provides structural building blocks, and vitamin D3 supports calcium absorption for bone health around joints. All-in-one formulas can replace multiple separate supplements but may compromise on individual ingredient doses.
Look for quality markers including GMP-certified manufacturing, USP or third-party verification, and transparent labeling that lists exact ingredient amounts rather than proprietary blends. Glucosamine chondroitin supplements typically require 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use before significant joint benefits become noticeable, so choose a product you can afford and commit to long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is glucosamine chondroitin and what does it do?
Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring compounds found in cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions joints. Glucosamine helps maintain and rebuild cartilage, while chondroitin retains water in the cartilage matrix, providing cushioning and shock absorption. When taken as a supplement, these compounds supply the building blocks your body needs to repair and maintain healthy joint cartilage, supporting flexibility, mobility, and comfort.
How much glucosamine chondroitin should I take daily?
The most clinically supported dosages are 1500mg of glucosamine sulfate and 1200mg of chondroitin sulfate per day. This can be taken as a single daily dose or split across 2-3 doses throughout the day. If your supplement also includes MSM, the standard dose is 1000-1500mg daily. Stick to the recommended dosage on your specific product label and don’t exceed suggested amounts without consulting a healthcare provider.
When is the best time to take glucosamine chondroitin?
Glucosamine chondroitin can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Taking it with meals may reduce the chance of mild stomach upset in sensitive individuals. Since it takes weeks of consistent use to build up in the body, the most important factor is taking it at the same time each day to maintain a routine. There is no significant evidence that timing relative to meals or exercise affects its long-term effectiveness.
Are there any side effects of glucosamine chondroitin?
Glucosamine chondroitin supplements are generally well-tolerated with a strong safety profile. The most common side effects are mild digestive symptoms including nausea, heartburn, and diarrhea, which usually resolve within the first week. People with shellfish allergies should use shellfish-free formulations. Those taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin should consult their doctor, as chondroitin may potentially enhance anticoagulant effects.
Can I take glucosamine chondroitin with other supplements?
Yes, glucosamine chondroitin can safely be combined with most other supplements including multivitamins, fish oil, vitamin D, and calcium. It actually pairs well with omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric for enhanced anti-inflammatory support. However, if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or have other medical conditions, check with your healthcare provider, as glucosamine can potentially affect blood sugar levels and interact with certain medications.
How long does it take for glucosamine chondroitin to work?
Most users begin noticing improvements in joint comfort and flexibility within 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use. Some fast-acting formulas claim results in 5-7 days, but traditional glucosamine chondroitin supplementation is cumulative and builds over time. Clinical studies typically assess results at 8-12 weeks, with continued improvement observed through 6 months. For best results, plan to commit to daily supplementation for at least 2-3 months before evaluating effectiveness.