Cartilex-D
Generic Name
Glucosamine Sulfate + Chondroitin Sulfate + Vitamin D3
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| cartilex d 750 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | ৳ 150.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Cartilex-D 750 mg Tablet is a combination supplement formulated to support joint health, improve cartilage function, and reduce pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. It contains Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Vitamin D3.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 1 tablet once daily, preferably with a meal, or as directed by a physician. The duration of treatment depends on individual response and severity of symptoms.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients. Dosage should be individualized based on clinical response.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment. Consult a physician for appropriate dose adjustment.
Hepatic_impairment
Use with caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Consult a physician.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with water, preferably with a meal to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
Mechanism of Action
Glucosamine is a building block of cartilage and synovial fluid, supporting cartilage repair and elasticity. Chondroitin helps maintain cartilage structure by attracting water and nutrients, improving lubrication and shock absorption. Vitamin D3 contributes to bone health and calcium metabolism, which is crucial for overall musculoskeletal integrity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects are typically observed after several weeks to months of consistent use, as these are slow-acting agents.
Excretion
Glucosamine is mainly excreted renally. Chondroitin is primarily excreted renally. Vitamin D metabolites are predominantly excreted in bile and feces, with a minor portion excreted renally.
Half life
Glucosamine: approximately 15 hours. Chondroitin: 6-10 hours. Vitamin D3 has a half-life of 24 hours in the circulation, but its active metabolites have much longer durations.
Absorption
Glucosamine has approximately 25-30% oral bioavailability. Chondroitin sulfate has low and variable absorption, typically 10-20%. Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble and absorbed in the small intestine, requiring bile salts.
Metabolism
Glucosamine is primarily metabolized in the liver to smaller molecules. Chondroitin is partially metabolized by lysosomal enzymes. Vitamin D3 is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and then in the kidneys to the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D].
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Vitamin D3, or any other excipients.
- Allergy to shellfish (as glucosamine is often derived from shellfish).
- Severe liver or kidney impairment (use with caution).
- Pregnancy and lactation (due to insufficient safety data).
Drug Interactions
Certain antacids
Some antacids may affect vitamin D absorption.
Tetracycline antibiotics
Glucosamine may reduce the absorption of tetracyclines.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Glucosamine and Chondroitin may enhance the effect of anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
Insulin and antidiabetic agents
Glucosamine may affect glucose metabolism, potentially leading to insulin resistance or affecting the efficacy of antidiabetic drugs. Monitor blood glucose levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely to cause severe effects. High doses may lead to gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). In case of accidental overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Limited data are available on the use of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Vitamin D3 in pregnant and lactating women. It is generally not recommended unless clearly necessary and after consulting a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Vitamin D3, or any other excipients.
- Allergy to shellfish (as glucosamine is often derived from shellfish).
- Severe liver or kidney impairment (use with caution).
- Pregnancy and lactation (due to insufficient safety data).
Drug Interactions
Certain antacids
Some antacids may affect vitamin D absorption.
Tetracycline antibiotics
Glucosamine may reduce the absorption of tetracyclines.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Glucosamine and Chondroitin may enhance the effect of anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
Insulin and antidiabetic agents
Glucosamine may affect glucose metabolism, potentially leading to insulin resistance or affecting the efficacy of antidiabetic drugs. Monitor blood glucose levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely to cause severe effects. High doses may lead to gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). In case of accidental overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Limited data are available on the use of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Vitamin D3 in pregnant and lactating women. It is generally not recommended unless clearly necessary and after consulting a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and online stores
Approval Status
Marketed as a dietary supplement/nutraceutical
Patent Status
Off-patent (for individual ingredients)
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have been conducted on Glucosamine and Chondroitin, with mixed results regarding their efficacy in severe osteoarthritis. Many studies show benefits in mild to moderate cases, particularly concerning pain relief and functional improvement. Vitamin D's role in bone health is well-established.
Lab Monitoring
- INR monitoring for patients taking anticoagulants.
- Blood glucose monitoring for diabetic patients or those at risk of insulin resistance.
- Periodic liver function tests if liver impairment is suspected or in long-term use.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients that this is a dietary supplement for joint support and not a substitute for conventional medical treatment.
- Educate patients on the importance of lifestyle modifications alongside supplementation.
- Monitor for potential drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants and antidiabetic agents.
- Manage patient expectations regarding onset and extent of therapeutic benefits.
Patient Guidelines
- Take consistently for several weeks to observe benefits.
- Inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking.
- Discontinue use and consult a doctor if severe allergic reactions or unusual symptoms occur.
- This is a supplement and not a complete cure for osteoarthritis.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Cartilex-D is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce stress on joints.
- Incorporate regular, low-impact exercises (e.g., swimming, cycling).
- Consider physical therapy or occupational therapy for joint support.
- Adopt a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods.
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