Osteoarthritis and DONA by WynnPharm
WynnPharm is passionate about providing high-quality supplements that can be accessible as over-the-counter solutions. As WynnPharm has pursued this mission, they’ve partnered with new ingredient partners who match their same dedication to high-quality over-the-counter formulas. The formulation we’ll focus on in this blog is DONA - Crystalline Glucosamine Sulfate. WynnPharm is dedicated to science-backed solutions for common ailments and symptoms. You may remember DONA from my previous blog post. Give it a quick refresh, but stick around because I have more to say about this fantastic formula!
DONA’s support goes beyond the basic health of the joint and extends to support healthy joint function, mobility, and flexibility. This is accomplished as the patented ingredient in DONA helps maintain the normal function of cartilage. Cartilage and crystalline glucosamine sulfate are more connected than you may realize. This blog will explore the function of cartilage, the science behind the efficacy of crystalline glucosamine sulfate, and ways that DONA can support individuals dealing with arthritis, and even more specifically - Osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis affects more than 32 millions adults and over 500 million people throughout the world. The disease affects hands, hips and knees primarily. Osteoarthritis is the process that breaks down the cartilage that provides cushions for your joints. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder, and the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis has minimal signs of inflammation but we know it is progressive. Consistent imaging shows changes in joints and other structures over time. With these structural differences comes pain, functional limitations, and disability. Those struggling with osteoarthritis may feel a reduced quality of life as they navigate their pain levels and movement limitations.
Although NSAIDs like Advil are often the first to be enlisted in hopes of pain relief, they’re not the ideal solution. These drugs are not specific in their symptom relief. They block the enzymes that create inflammation that results in pain. Even though they may provide pain
relief, it is only short term and comes at a metabolic cost. Additionally, the concerns about long-term efficacy and safety of these drugs are rather limiting. In a search for short-term symptom relief, it's important to also consider the progress towards medium- and long-term solutions.
NSAIDS or Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most common class of drug prescribed for arthritis of all types. They are available over-the-counter and by prescription.
Non-prescription strength NSAIDs include:
- Aspirin (Bayer®, St. Joseph®).
- Ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®).
- Naproxen sodium (Aleve®).
Some of the most common prescription-strength NSAIDs include:
- Celecoxib (Celebrex®).
- Diclofenac (Voltaren®).
- Fenoprofen (Nalfon®).
- Indomethacin (Indocin®).
- Ketorolac (Toradol®).
In a recent study of patients
with Osteoarthritis, patients who used NSAIDS showed worse results at a four year follow up. These patients had more cartilage loss and joint inflammation than the control group who did not use NSAIDS. Although these medications may help to alleviate pain in the short term, the long term outcomes are hurtful and result in more pain.
Osteoarthritis patients are especially interested in symptom management, and delayed progression of the disease and the joint structure changes that come with it. In other words, they want relief and to slow down the process of damage and immobility in their joints. Why would you take an NSAID that will make your pain and disease worse in the end. Instead of focusing on blocking pain, which is what NSAIDS do, why not focus on rebuilding cartilage in your affected joints.
Crystalline Glucosamine Sulfate & Cartilage
Cartilage is sort of like the cushion of your joints. Healthy cartilage is what allows you to keep: walking, climbing the stairs, swimming, running, etc. Damaged or deteriorating cartilage can be a source of immense pain while engaging in these activities. While the term ‘cushion’ may make it sound simple, cartilage is made up of specialized components that help maintain its structure and cartilage. Crystalline Glucosamine Sulfate is one of the naturally occurring substances found in cartilage, a building block even! DONA provides your body with support by offering Clinical Strength Crystalline Glucosamine Sulfate in a convenient, 2-a-day dosage caplet, to assist the cartilage with its important jobs. Your joints can be kept flexible and free of discomfort, and inflammatory reactions in your joints are decreased.
You may have heard of glucosamine before, the benefits of glucosamine have become increasingly publicized and utilized. It should be noted; however, that there are many forms of glucosamine. The clinical trials that are in favor of glucosamine use have studied glucosamine in the stabilized form of glucosamine sulfate (as was used in the original prescription products). Other forms, such as hydrochloride, have not been shown to be effective. It’s encouraging that the positive results of crystalline glucosamine sulfate use continue to be replicated in recent trials, showing the accuracy of the findings as time goes on and new experiments take place. One such study remarks, “these findings suggest an overall better control of the disease symptoms with [crystalline glucosamine sulfate] therapy in agreement with previous studies.”
Reviews
If you’re still unsure, don’t just take our word for it – take a look at these reviews from fellow Healthy Habits Living customers:
“Aching knees are less frequent, and I am maintaining my joint space. Knee replacement avoidance is going well” - Becky R.
“100% recommended Dona. My knees feel better after 1 week of use.” - Kerri C.
“I am a 76 year old female. I've had knee pain for many years and tried many remedies with little relief. Over the last 5 years the knees got worse preventing me ascending two-story-house stairs. I've been taking DONA for three years. After the very first dose, I got relief. Not too happy about the expense, but love the med. Will take DONA as long as I can afford it.” - Diane D.
“I have had issues with painful joints since I was 19 years old. I am now in my late 60’s. In my lifetime I have used many joint support products and this is the only one my MD recommended. My joints feel and function better when I am consistently taking DONA.” - Heather J.
“I tried other brands of glucosamine with little to no results. A rheumatologist recommended I try one more brand - DONA . At the time I had lost a lot of muscle mass. I had issues with leg strength and muscle cooperation and needed to hold onto something stable when walking. Within a month after starting DONA brand glucosamine, I could walk without assistance and felt stronger. I have continued to take it cause I know it works!” - Mildred T.
“My doctor recommended. Dona as an alternative for a prescription medication. I am now on a 6 month regimen. So far 👍 “ - Anna P.
FAQs
What are the side effects of Dona?
There aren’t any reported side effects from taking DONA. I recommend taking the caplets with food to avoid nausea.
What to avoid when taking glucosamine?
Some suggest that women who are pregnant shouldn’t take glucosamine supplements while other studies suggest it is safe. Warfarin (Coumadin) may interact with glucosamine supplements and increase a risk of bleeding.
What is crystalline glucosamine?
Crystalline glucosamine is the form of glucosamine originally used in medical studies and prescriptions for arthritis. It is now available over-the-counter as DONA. Medical studies show that 1500mg is the optimal dose for rebuilding cartilage. DONA contains 1500mg in 2 caplets or 750mg per caplets. Each bottle contains 60 count and is a 1 month supply.
What brands are crystalline glucosamine sulfate?
Competing brands may be selling lower doses of glucosamine sulfate or using an inferior form of glucosamine.
Conclusion
WynnPharm’s DONA is a unique and high-quality product that may make all the difference in navigating your joint pain. If you’re looking for ways to help maintain your cartilage, support healthy joint function, mobility, and flexibility, Schedule a consult with me, Carly Neubert BA, NC.
Sources Used
Does Glucosamine Work? Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects
