There are limited studies of glucosamine HCl in humans. Although some subjects do report statistically significant improvement in pain and function from products combining glucosamine HCl and other agents, glucosamine HCl by itself appears to offer little benefit to those suffering from osteoarthritis.
People take glucosamine hydrochloride by mouth for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, glaucoma, a jaw disorder called temporomandibular disorder (TMD), joint pain, back pain, and weight loss.
Glucosamine should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment; side effects and renal function should be monitored. It is advisable to avoid glucosamine for patients with severe renal impairment and those on dialysis until more data are available.