Joint Health Product FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

On this page you will find frequently asked questions for our joint health products. Use the links below to jump to the product you want to learn more about. If you still have questions, please submit your question to one of our highly trained customer service representatives or contact us at 1-877-COSAMIN (267-2646).

Cosamin^® ASU

Cosamin^® DS

Avoca ASU^®

Cosamin^® ASU

Cosamin^® ASU QuestionsBack to Top

What is joint cartilage?

Why does cartilage break down?

How do I take Cosamin^® ASU?

What should I look for when taking Cosamin^® ASU?

Are there any safety concerns with Cosamin^® ASU?

Cosamin ASU AnswersBack To Cosamin ASU Questions

What is joint cartilage?

Joints are the junction between two or more bones. The ends of the bones are covered with cartilage which serves as a smooth, resilient cushion that allows the joint to move freely. Joints also have a synovial tissue lining that encloses them and secretes a lubricating fluid. The stability of the joint is supported by ligaments that connect bones to bones; and tendons that connect the ends of muscles to bone. Cartilage in the joint is produced and maintained by its own specialized cells. When you do even the simplest of everyday activities, there is tremendous pressure on your joints. The protective cartilage cushion and joint fluid work together like a shock absorber to allow for proper joint flexibility.

Cosamin ASU AnswersBack To Cosamin ASU Questions

Why does cartilage break down?

There are many factors that lead to cartilage breakdown:

• Age
• Excess weight
• Inactivity or over activity
• Injury
• Genetics

Cartilage lacks a direct blood supply. It relies on nutrients found in the joint fluid to nourish cartilage cells and maintain its structure. When this process is affected by one or more of the factors mentioned above, cartilage can break down to the point where it can no longer work efficiently.

Cosamin ASU AnswersBack To Cosamin ASU Questions

How do I take Cosamin^® ASU?

SUGGESTED USE:

Maximum Protection:

Take 4 capsules per day. Capsules may be taken all at once or divided with meals throughout the day.

Maintenance:

Once desired effect is noticed, you may gradually reduce the number of capsules to maintain comfort level.

Some individuals may respond sooner than others depending on the status of their cartilage and joint health. Once response has been seen, the number of capsules per day may be decreased to maintain comfort level. Some individuals on this lower level may wish to go back to four capsules a day during the weekends or times of increased activity.

The maintenance level can also be used long-term to help maintain healthy joints. At any time, the number of capsules may be increased back to four capsules per day.

Cosamin ASU AnswersBack To Cosamin ASU Questions

What should I look for when taking Cosamin^® ASU?

Individual improvement on Cosamin ASU can range from gradual to dramatic, with some individuals responding sooner than others. Cosamin ASU is a supplement providing key components to maintain your joint health; therefore, it works gradually. You should observe gradual changes in your comfort level. Give yourself time to respond. Look for subtle changes initially, such as an easier time going up and down stairs or getting out of a chair or bathtub and more comfort in daily activities, such as walking or any activity using your hands, knees, hips or back.

Cosamin ASU AnswersBack To Cosamin ASU Questions

Are there any safety concerns with Cosamin^® ASU?

There are no known contraindications or known interactions between Cosamin ASU and any drug or nutritional supplement. If you have any condition or allergy that requires medical attention, you should always consult your physician before taking any drug or dietary supplement.

If you still have questions, please submit your question to one of our highly trained customer service representatives or contact us at 1-877-COSAMIN (267-2646).

Cosamin^® DS

Cosamin^® DS QuestionsBack to Top

What is joint cartilage?

Why does cartilage break down?

Why did my doctor recommend Cosamin^® DS?

How does Cosamin^® DS work?

How do I take Cosamin^® DS?

When should I start taking Cosamin^® DS?

Cosamin DS AnswersBack To Cosamin DS Questions

What is joint cartilage?

Joints are the junction between two or more bones. The ends of the bones are covered with cartilage which serves as a smooth, resilient cushion that allows the joint to move freely. Joints also have a synovial tissue lining that encloses them and secrets a lubricating fluid. The stability of the joint is supported by ligaments that connect bones to bones; and tendons that connect the ends of muscles to bone. Cartilage in the joint is produced and maintained by its own specialized cells. When you do even the simplest of everyday activities, there is tremendous pressure on your joints. The protective cartilage cushion and joint fluid work together like a shock absorber to allow for proper joint flexibility.

Cosamin DS AnswersBack To Cosamin DS Questions

Why does cartilage break down?

There are many factors that lead to cartilage breakdown:

• Age
• Excess weight
• Inactivity or over activity
• Injury
• Genetics

Cartilage lacks a direct blood supply. It relies on nutrients found in the joint fluid to nourish cartilage cells and maintain its structure. When this process is affected by one or more of the factors mentioned above, cartilage can break down to the point where it can no longer work efficiently.

Cosamin DS AnswersBack To Cosamin DS Questions

Why did my doctor recommend Cosamin^® DS?

Your doctor understands there are differences between glucosamine/chondroitin brands. Cosamin DS is the only brand proven to reduce joint pain in controlled, published U.S. clinical studies. Laboratory studies have shown that the combination of ingredients in Cosamin DS work better together than glucosamine alone. Published experimental trials indicate that the ingredients in Cosamin DS can protect cartilage from breakdown.

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How does Cosamin^® DS work?

The two main ingredients in Cosamin DS, TRH122^® pharmaceutical grade chondroitin sulfate and FCHG49^® glucosamine hydrochloride, stimulate the production of cartilage. In younger, healthier individuals cartilage cells would normally accomplish this task. However, as one ages, cartilage cells die off and are not replaced. This starts a cycle of breakdown in the cartilage. There are also enzymes present that degrade cartilage. Glucosamine hydrochloride stimulates cartilage production while chondroitin sulfate inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage. Chondroitin sulfate has been shown in clinical trials to slow the progression of cartilage deterioration as well as reduce joint pain.

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Why is Cosamin^® DS my best choice?

• Cosamin DS—the #1 Orthopedic Specialist recommended brand^▲
• Cosamin DS—the ONLY brand proven effective in controlled, published U.S. clinical studies to reduce joint pain.
• Cosamin DS—contains the full clinical strength of active ingredients- compared to other brands.
• Cosamin DS—requires only 1 or 2 capsules daily for long term use.

▲Source: SLACK Incorporated Market Research Survey, April 2009. Survey conducted of Orthopedic Specialists relating to glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate brands.

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How do I take Cosamin^® DS?

Suggested use:

Maximum Protection:
Take 3 capsules per day. Capsules may be taken all at once or divided with meals throughout the day.

Maintenance:
Take 1 - 2 capsules per day

Cosamin DS AnswersBack To Cosamin DS Questions

When should I start taking Cosamin^® DS?

Cosamin DS is more effective when used in the early stages of joint deterioration. Early action is always the best advice. If you notice changes in flexibility or joint function it is best to see your doctor. Your doctor may discuss with you:

• Weight control
• Exercise
• Taking Cosamin DS

Cosamin DS can be used before the onset of joint pain and stiffness. For those who exercise daily or strenuously and are not experiencing joint pain and stiffness, Cosamin DS may be taken to maintain optimal joint health.

If you still have questions, please submit your question to one of our highly trained customer service representatives or contact us at 1-877-COSAMIN (267-2646).

Avoca ASU^®

Avoca ASU^® QuestionsBack to Top

What is Avoca ASU^®?

What is joint cartilage?

Why does cartilage break down?

What role do the glucosamine and ASU in Avoca ASU^®play?

What is OptiMSM^®▲ , and why is it included in the formula?

How do I take Avoca ASU^®?

What should I look for when taking Avoca ASU^®?

Are there any safety concerns with Avoca ASU^®?

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

What is Avoca ASU^®?

Avoca ASU is a comprehensive vegetarian joint health supplement that contains non-shellfish glucosamine, NMX1000^® avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), and OptiMSM^®▲. Avoca ASU also contains decaffeinated green tea extract for antioxidant health benefits. All ingredients are from non-animal origin.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

What is joint cartilage?

Joints are the junction between two or more bones. The ends of the bones are covered with cartilage which serves as a smooth, resilient cushion that allows the joint to move freely. Joints also have a synovial tissue lining that encloses them and secretes a lubricating fluid. The stability of the joint is supported by ligaments that connect bones to bones; and tendons that connect the ends of muscles to bone. Cartilage in the joint is produced and maintained by its own specialized cells. When you do even the simplest of everyday activities, there is tremendous pressure on your joints. The protective cartilage cushion and joint fluid work together like a shock absorber to allow for proper joint flexibility.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

Why does cartilage break down?

There are many factors that lead to cartilage breakdown:

• Age
• Excess weight
• Inactivity or over activity
• Injury
• Genetics

Cartilage lacks a direct blood supply. It relies on nutrients found in the joint fluid to nourish cartilage cells and maintain its structure. When this process is affected by one or more of the factors mentioned above, cartilage can break down to the point where it can no longer work efficiently.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

What role do the glucosamine and ASU in Avoca ASU^® play?

The glucosamine in Avoca ASU enhances the production of cartilage matrix components that keep cartilage cells healthy and functioning properly. ASU stands for avocado/soybean unsaponifiables, derived from avocados and soybeans and used for joint health. Studies using cartilage cells have shown that ASU lowers the expression of several compounds involved in the process of cartilage breakdown in the joints. ASU complements the positive effects of the glucosamine in Avoca ASU. A greater than additive effect, known as a “synergistic” effect, on cartilage cells was seen using ASU and glucosamine together. Avoca ASU also contains decaffeinated green tea extract for antioxidant health benefit effects.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

What is OptiMSM^®, and why is it included in the formula?

OptiMSM is the pure and patented form of MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), that provides sulfur which is used for the structural integrity of joint cartilage.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

How do I take Avoca ASU^®?

Following the schedule on the label, we recommend three tablets daily for the initial administration period of 4-8 weeks. Some individuals may respond sooner than others depending on the status of their cartilage and joint health. Once response has been seen, the number of tablets per day may be decreased to maintain comfort level. Some individuals on this lower level may wish to go back to three tablets a day during the weekends or times of increased activity.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

What should I look for when taking Avoca ASU^®?

Avoca ASU is a supplement providing key components to maintain your joint health; therefore, it works gradually. You should observe gradual changes in your comfort level. Give yourself time to respond. Look for subtle changes initially, such as an easier time going up and down stairs or getting out of a chair or bathtub and more comfort in daily activities, such as walking or any activity using your hands, knees, hips or back.

Avoca ASU AnswersBack To Avoca Questions

Are there any safety concerns with Avoca ASU^®?

There are no known contraindications or known interactions between Avoca ASU and any drug or nutritional supplement. If you have any condition or allergy that requires medical attention, you should always consult your physician before taking any drug or dietary supplement.

If you still have questions, please submit your question to one of our highly trained customer service representatives or contact us at 1-877-267-2646.

Avoca ASU contains NMX1000^® Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables, Nutramax Laboratories^® exclusive proprietary researched specifications.

^▲ OptiMSM^® is a registered trademark of Bergstrom Nutrition®.