Effect of Glucosamine on Intraocular Pressure and Risk of Developing Glaucoma
Steven Lehrer, Timothy Morello, Charles Karrasch, Peter H. Rheinstein, John Danias- Ophthalmology
Background:
The most frequently recommended slow-acting medication for osteoarthritis symptoms is glucosamine, although its effectiveness is questionable. Widely used glucosamine sulfate supplements may increase intraocular pressure (IOP).
Methods:
In the current study we analyzed online databases UK Biobank, MedWatch, and FinnGen to evaluate the relationship of glucosamine to IOP and glaucoma. We included budesonide and fluticasone in the analysis for comparison since these drugs are associated with increased IOP.
Results:
In UK Biobank subjects, glucosamine use was associated with increased corneal compensated IOP (
Conclusion:
Glucosamine supplementation is common but can be associated with increased IOP and could contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma. It may be prudent for ophthalmologists to elicit any history of glucosamine use from their patients and advise them accordingly. Further studies on the role of glucosamine in glaucoma are warranted.