Joint Supplement Glucosamine Shows Possible Link to Faster Alzheimer's Progression: Study
Glucosamine, a widely used supplement for joint health, was associated with a higher likelihood of dementia progression among people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), according to a study published in Nature Metabolism.
Researchers from the University of Florida analysed de-identified health records collected between 2012 and 2024. About 8% of patients in both groups reported using glucosamine, including 2,750 people with MCI and 1,896 people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).
After accounting for age, sex and demographic factors, glucosamine use was associated with a 25% higher likelihood that people with MCI would progress to dementia. Among people who already had ADRD, glucosamine use was also associated with a 25% higher risk of death. This association was not observed among people with MCI.
The researchers also investigated a possible biological explanation using human brain tissue and genetically modified mice. Their findings focused on a process called protein glycosylation, in which sugar molecules are attached to proteins. This is a normal cellular process, but the researchers found evidence that it may become overactive in Alzheimer’s disease.
Human brain tissue from people with Alzheimer’s showed greater protein glycosylation than tissue from people without the disease. In mice, glucosamine increased this sugar attachment and was associated with poorer social memory. Suppressing the pathway with a chemical treatment improved memory performance in the animals.
Glucosamine can cross the blood-brain barrier and enter pathways involved in protein glycosylation. The researchers suggested that the Alzheimer’s brain may respond differently to glucosamine because of existing metabolic changes.
However, the findings do not prove that glucosamine causes dementia to progress. The researchers said controlled clinical trials are needed to determine whether glucosamine directly affects dementia progression. The findings do not currently establish that people should stop taking glucosamine.
REFERENCE: Tara R. Hawkinson, et al.; Hyperglycosylation is a metabolic driver of Alzheimer’s disease. Nature Metabolism, 2026; 8 (6): 1410 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-026-01538-4
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.