Optimum Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Genacol
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Optimum against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Optimum is a dietary supplement by Genacol with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for osteoarthritis joint pain, joint stiffness, cartilage support.Based on those ingredients, 170 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Optimum by Genacol
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Optimum by Genacol — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
Ask the Pharmacist
A licensed pharmacist will answer your question by email — free, usually within 24 hours.
Got it — thank you!
A licensed pharmacist will answer within 24 hours. Keep an eye on your email (worth checking spam, just in case).
HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Optimum by Genacol
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
Genacol Optimum is a liquid with 4 active ingredients: chondroitin sulfate, MSM, hydrolyzed collagen, and glucosamine sulfate. These are all compounds your body uses in cartilage, connective tissue, and joints—the product is designed to supply raw material for joint and skin health.
The inactive ingredients are purified water, erythritol (a sugar alcohol sweetener), citric acid, citrus aroma, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, and stevia.
Does it work?
Strong evidence
Glucosamine sulfate is likely effective for osteoarthritis—the strongest evidence on this product. Chondroitin sulfate and hydrolyzed collagen are possibly effective for osteoarthritis and aging skin, respectively.
The other claimed uses for chondroitin (cataracts) and collagen (dry skin) are also rated possibly effective, but evidence for collagen on muscle strength is rated possibly ineffective. We don't have enough reliable evidence to rate chondroitin for osteoporosis, high cholesterol, or colorectal adenoma prevention.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Chondroitin and glucosamine are generally well tolerated for short-term use, though the quality and real-world benefit of chondroitin products varies. The most common side effects from oral use are digestive: bloating, constipation, cramps, diarrhea, heartburn, and nausea.
Rarely, glucosamine has been linked to allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, and in rare cases severe reactions or anaphylaxis), asthma flare-ups, and liver injury. Hydrolyzed collagen may cause nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, and bloating, but these are uncommon.
The safety data advises against chondroitin and glucosamine during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hydrolyzed collagen hasn't been well studied in pregnancy, so talk with your doctor before using if you're pregnant; during breastfeeding, limited data exists, so caution is advised.
There's no pregnancy or breastfeeding safety data on file for MSM.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Before taking Genacol Optimum, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take warfarin or other blood thinners—glucosamine and chondroitin may increase bleeding risk. Also flag any cancer drugs (especially topoisomerase II inhibitors like etoposide or doxorubicin), diabetes medications, or regular acetaminophen use.
These are the medication types with documented interactions.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with clinical evidence supporting its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Genacol Optimum may help with osteoarthritis and aging skin based on its glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen content, though results vary. If you take warfarin, cancer drugs, diabetes medications, or acetaminophen regularly, you'll need to check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, since interactions are documented.
This product is not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 3 of 4 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 19, 2021.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Optimum, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Genacol |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 828875200208 |
| Net contents | 15.21 Fluid Ounce(s); 450 mL |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Nov 19, 2021 |
| DSLD ID | 257020 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Liquid |
| Dietary claims / uses | Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Optimum by Genacol, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 5 Calorie(s) | -- |
| Chondroitin Sulfate | 500 mg | -- |
| MSM | 400 mg | -- |
| Hydrolyzed Collagen | 1.2 Gram(s) | -- |
| Glucosamine Sulfate | 1.5 Gram(s) | -- |
Other ingredients: purified Water, Erythritol, Citric Acid, Citrus Aroma, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Stevia
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula
AminoLock Collagen Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM
Genacol Optimum is a powerful 4-in-1 joint health care formula. This fast-absorbing optimal blend contains our exclusive AminoLock Collagen. It offers the smallest collagen peptides in the world for greater absorption and is backed by 3 independent studies.
Formulation
Helps to maintain healthy joints Helps to lubricate and protect joints
Non-GMO Gluten-free No sugar added
Made in Canada
IGEN Non-GMO Certified
No artificial ingredients, chemicals, color additives or gluten
Color, odor and taste of the product may vary. This does not affect its effectiveness and quality.
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Seals/Symbols
cGMP Certified Good Manufacturing Practice
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested use (adult): As a dietary supplement, pour 15 mL (0.51 oz) in the measuring cup and mix with water or juice once daily or as directed by your health care practitioner. It is recommended to use this product at least for one month to notice beneficial results.
Shake well before opening.
Storage
Keep cool (under 15 degrees C or refrigerate)
Precautions
Caution: Do not exceed recommended dose.
Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under age of 18, and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement.
Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under age of 18, and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement.
Do not use if safety seal is damaged or missing.
Warning: Keep out of reach of children.
Brand IP Statement(s)
Patent Pending Technology
Genacol is a Canadian and US registered trademark of Genacol Canada Corporation Inc.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Optimum by Genacol label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Optimum by Genacol
These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size15 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Interacts with2 drugs
Chondroitin sulfate is a naturally occurring building block of cartilage that is widely taken, often with glucosamine, for osteoarthritis joint pain....
Chondroitin Sulfate monograph & interactionsMSM
Hydrolyzed Collagen
No knowninteractions
Collagen peptides are a well-absorbed form of protein that may modestly improve skin elasticity and joint comfort for some people, though evidence is...
Hydrolyzed Collagen monograph & interactionsGlucosamine Sulfate
Interacts with170 drugs
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage and joint fluid, and it is one of the most popular supplements for osteoarthritis, especially of...
Glucosamine Sulfate monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Purified Water, Erythritol, Citric Acid, Citrus Aroma, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Stevia. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Optimum by Genacol Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Genacol Optimum has documented interactions with several medication types, primarily through its glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate content.
The most serious concern is with warfarin (a blood thinner), where glucosamine carries a Major risk of increased bleeding and bruising by boosting warfarin's blood-thinning effects. Chondroitin may add to this risk when combined with glucosamine.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Glucosamaine also interacts with topoisomerase II inhibitors (certain cancer drugs) at Moderate severity—though human cases haven't been reported, lab research suggests glucosamine might reduce how well these drugs work. Additionally, Minor interactions are documented with antidiabetes medications (glucosamine's effect on blood sugar control is uncertain but historically concerning) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), where anecdotal reports suggest pain relief might be reduced if you take them together.
We could not check MSM for interactions because we hold no data on it. Hydrolyzed collagen, which we did check, has no documented interactions.
Altogether, these interactions span 170 individual medications.
Before you start Genacol Optimum, run your exact medications through the search tool on this page or talk with your pharmacist or doctor—especially if you take warfarin or any cancer or diabetes drug.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Optimum?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Optimum interact with 170 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 4 ingredients in Optimum interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Glucosamine Sulfate Chondroitin Sulfate
Insulin AspartFiasp
How Insulin Aspart interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Aspart interactionInsulin Aspart, Insulin DegludecRyzodeg 70/30
How Insulin Aspart, Insulin Degludec interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Aspart, Insulin Degludec interactionInsulin DegludecTresiba
How Insulin Degludec interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Degludec interactionInsulin Degludec, LiraglutideXultophy 100/3.6
How Insulin Degludec, Liraglutide interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Degludec, Liraglutide interactionInsulin GlargineBasaglar, Lusduna, Semglee
How Insulin Glargine interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Glargine interactionInsulin Glargine (rdna)Lantus
How Insulin Glargine (rdna) interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Glargine (rdna) interactionInsulin Glargine RecombinantToujeo Solostar
How Insulin Glargine Recombinant interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Glargine Recombinant interactionInsulin Glargine, LixisenatideSoliqua 100/33
How Insulin Glargine, Lixisenatide interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Glargine, Lixisenatide interactionInsulin Glulisine (rdna)Apidra
How Insulin Glulisine (rdna) interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Glulisine (rdna) interactionInsulin Human, Sodium ChlorideMyxredlin
How Insulin Human, Sodium Chloride interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Human, Sodium Chloride interactionInsulin LisproAdmelog, Admelog Solostar
How Insulin Lispro interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Lispro interactionInsulin Lispro RecombinantHumalog Kwikpen
How Insulin Lispro Recombinant interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Lispro Recombinant interactionInsulin Lispro-aabcLyumjev
How Insulin Lispro-aabc interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Lispro-aabc interactionInsulin DetermirLevemir
How Insulin Determir interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Insulin Determir interactionLinagliptinTradjenta
How Linagliptin interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Linagliptin interactionLinagliptin, Metformin HydrochlorideJentadueto XR
How Linagliptin, Metformin Hydrochloride interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Linagliptin, Metformin Hydrochloride interactionLiraglutideVictoza
How Liraglutide interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Liraglutide interactionLiraglutide RecombinantSaxenda
How Liraglutide Recombinant interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Liraglutide Recombinant interactionLixisenatideAdlyxin
How Lixisenatide interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Lixisenatide interactionMetforminGlucophage, Metformin
How Metformin interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Metformin interactionMetformin HydrochlorideRiomet ER
How Metformin Hydrochloride interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Metformin Hydrochloride interactionMetformin XrGlucophage XR
How Metformin Xr interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Metformin Xr interactionMetformin, LinagliptinJentadueto
How Metformin, Linagliptin interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Metformin, Linagliptin interactionMetformin, RosiglitazoneAvandamet
How Metformin, Rosiglitazone interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Metformin, Rosiglitazone interactionMetformin, SitagliptinJanumet, Janumet XR
How Metformin, Sitagliptin interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Metformin, Sitagliptin interactionMiglitolGlyset
How Miglitol interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Miglitol interactionMuraglitazarPargluva
How Muraglitazar interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Muraglitazar interactionNateglinideStarlix
How Nateglinide interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Nateglinide interactionParacetamolPanadol
How Paracetamol interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
Acetaminophen might interfere with the activity of glucosamine sulfate by interacting with the sulfate portion.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Paracetamol interactionPioglitazoneActos
How Pioglitazone interacts with Optimum — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Glucosamine SulfateAntidiabetes Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Glucosamine Sulfate + Pioglitazone interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Optimum with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Glucosamine Sulfate
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Glucosamine might increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin and increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
In two individual case reports, glucosamine/chondroitin combinations were associated with a significant increase in international normalized ratio (INR) in patients previously stabilized on warfarin. In one case, the increase in INR occurred only after tripling the dose of a glucosamine/chondroitin supplement from 500 mg/400 mg daily to 1500/1200 mg daily. Additionally, 20 voluntary case reports to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) have linked glucosamine plus chondroitin with increased INR, bruising, and bleeding in patients who were also taking warfarin. There have also been 20 additional case reports to the World Health Organization (WHO) that link glucosamine alone to increased INR in patients taking warfarin. The mechanism of this interaction is unclear. Glucosamine is a small component of heparin, but is not thought to have anticoagulant activity; however, animal research suggests that it might have antiplatelet activity.
Topoisomerase Ii Inhibitors
Theoretically glucosamine may induce resistance to topoisomerase II inhibitors.
In vitro research suggests that glucosamine might induce resistance to etoposide (VP16, VePesid) and doxorubicin (Adriamycin) by reducing inhibition of topoisomerase II, an enzyme required for DNA replication in tumor cells. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)
Acetaminophen might interfere with the activity of glucosamine sulfate by interacting with the sulfate portion.
Anecdotal reports suggest that adding glucosamine to an acetaminophen regimen might decrease pain control in patients with osteoarthritis. Some research suggests that the sulfate portion of glucosamine sulfate might contribute to its effect in osteoarthritis. Since acetaminophen metabolism requires sulfur and reduces serum sulfate concentrations, acetaminophen could theoretically interfere with the action of glucosamine sulfate. Conversely, the administration of sulfate could theoretically decrease the effectiveness of acetaminophen in sulfate-deficient people by increasing its clearance.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Despite initial concerns, it is unlikely that glucosamine will interfere with the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
In vitro and animal research has suggested that glucosamine might increase insulin resistance or decrease insulin production. This has raised concerns that taking glucosamine might worsen diabetes and decrease the effectiveness of diabetes drugs. However, clinical research suggests that glucosamine does not have adverse effects on blood glucose or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) in healthy, obese, or type 2 diabetes patients.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Taking chondroitin in combination with glucosamine might increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. However, the effect of chondroitin alone is unclear.
There have been multiple reports of increased international normalized ratio (INR) in patients taking warfarin with glucosamine, with or without chondroitin. The lack of reports with chondroitin alone seem to suggest that the interactions occurring in these reports may have been due to glucosamine. In two individual case reports, glucosamine/chondroitin combinations were associated with a significant increase in INR in patients previously stabilized on warfarin. Additionally, 20 voluntary case reports to the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) have linked glucosamine plus chondroitin with increased INR, bruising, and bleeding in patients who were also taking warfarin. There have also been 20 additional case reports to the World Health Organization (WHO) that link glucosamine alone, without chondroitin, to increased INR in patients taking warfarin.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Optimum, from the product label.
Genacol
See all Genacol products- Name
- Genacol
- Street Address
- 1229, 38th Ave N #240
- City
- Myrtle Beach
- State
- SC
- ZipCode
- 29577
- Phone Number
- 1 888 514-3622
- Web Address
- genacol.com
Optimum by Genacol: Common Questions
Does Optimum by Genacol interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Does this help with joint pain and osteoarthritis?
What are the most common side effects?
Is it safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Can I take this with acetaminophen (Tylenol)?
What is MSM and does it interact with anything?
Is this product gluten-free or free of other allergens?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Optimum is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Optimum’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Interacts with 2 drugsChondroitin sulfate is a naturally occurring building block of cartilage that is widely taken, often with glucosamine, for osteoarthritis joint pain. The evidence is mixed—some people report...
Read the full Chondroitin Sulfate monograph → Herb & supplement monographCollagen Peptides
Collagen peptides are a well-absorbed form of protein that may modestly improve skin elasticity and joint comfort for some people, though evidence is still developing and results vary. They...
Read the full Collagen Peptides monograph → Herb & supplement monographGlucosamine
Interacts with 170 drugsGlucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage and joint fluid, and it is one of the most popular supplements for osteoarthritis, especially of the knee. The evidence is mixed, with so...
Read the full Glucosamine monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Optimum's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 82 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Chondroitin Sulfate 22 references
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
- Tallia AF, Cardone DA. Asthma exacerbation associated with glucosamine-chondroitin supplement. J Am Board Fam Pract 2002;15:481-4..
- Danao-Camara T. Potential side effects of treatment with glucosamine and chondroitin. Arthritis Rheum 2000;43:2853. PubMed
- Rozenfeld V, Crain JL, Callahan AK. Possible augmentation of warfarin effect by glucosamine-chondroitin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2004;61:306-307. PubMed
- Clegg DO, Reda DJ, Harris CL, et al. Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and the two in combination for painful knee osteoarthritis. N Engl J Med 2006;354:795-808. DOI
- Knudsen J, Sokol GH. Potential glucosamine-warfarin interaction resulting in increased international normalized ratio: Case report and review of the literature and MedWatch database. Pharmacotherapy 2008;28:540-8. PubMed
- Yue QY, Strandell J, Myrberg O. Concomitant use of glucosamine potentiates the effect of warfarin. Jan 2006. Drug Safety 29(10):911-1010. DOI
- Nordling, J. and van, Ophoven A. Intravesical glycosaminoglycan replenishment with chondroitin sulphate in chronic forms of cystitis. A multi-national, multi-centre, prospective observational clinical trial. Arzneimittelforschung. 2008;58(7):328-335. PubMed
- Nickel, J. C., Egerdie, B., Downey, J., Singh, R., Skehan, A., Carr, L., and Irvine-Bird, K. A real-life multicentre clinical practice study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravesical chondroitin sulphate for the treatment of interstitial cystit
- Oliviero, U., Sorrentino, G. P., De Paola, P., Tranfaglia, E., D'Alessandro, A., Carifi, S., Porfido, F. A., Cerio, R., Grasso, A. M., Policicchio, D., and . Effects of the treatment with matrix on elderly people with chronic articular degeneration. Drug
- Crowley, D. C., Lau, F. C., Sharma, P., Evans, M., Guthrie, N., Bagchi, M., Bagchi, D., Dey, D. K., and Raychaudhuri, S. P. Safety and efficacy of undenatured type II collagen in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a clinical trial. Int.J.Med.Sc PubMed
- Nickel, J. C., Egerdie, R. B., Steinhoff, G., Palmer, B., and Hanno, P. A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel group pilot evaluation of the efficacy and safety of intravesical sodium chondroitin sulfate versus vehicle control in patients with
- Sawitzke, A. D., Shi, H., Finco, M. F., Dunlop, D. D., Harris, C. L., Singer, N. G., Bradley, J. D., Silver, D., Jackson, C. G., Lane, N. E., Oddis, C. V., Wolfe, F., Lisse, J., Furst, D. E., Bingham, C. O., Reda, D. J., Moskowitz, R. W., Williams, H. J.
- Wildi, L. M., Raynauld, J. P., Martel-Pelletier, J., Beaulieu, A., Bessette, L., Morin, F., Abram, F., Dorais, M., and Pelletier, J. P. Chondroitin sulphate reduces both cartilage volume loss and bone marrow lesions in knee osteoarthritis patients starti
- Pavelka and et al. Double-blind, dose effect study of oral cs 4 & 6 1200mg, 800mg, 200mg against placebo in the treatment of femorotibial osteoarthritis. Wular Rheumatol Liter 1998;27(suppl 2):63.
- Cerda C, Bruguera M, Parés A. Hepatotoxicity associated with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in patients with chronic liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2013;19(32):5381-4. PubMed
- von Felden J, Montani M, Kessebohm K, Stickel F. Drug-induced acute liver injury mimicking autoimmune hepatitis after intake of dietary supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2013;51(3):219-23. PubMed
- Provenza JR, Shinjo SK, Silva JM, Peron CR, Rocha FA. Combined glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, once or three times daily, provides clinically relevant analgesia in knee osteoarthritis. Clin Rheumatol 2015;34:1455-62. PubMed
- Ossendza RA, Grandval P, Chinoune F, Rocher F, Chapel F, Bernardini D. [Acute cholestatic hepatitis due to glucosamine forte]. Gastroenterol Clin Biol. 2007 Apr;31(4):449-50.
- Greenlee H, Crew KD, Shao T, Kranwinkel G, Kalinsky K, Maurer M, Brafman L, Insel B, Tsai WY, Hershman DL. Phase II study of glucosamine with chondroitin on aromatase inhibitor-associated joint symptoms in women with breast cancer. Support Care Cancer 201 PubMed
- Chu EC, Huang KHK, Cheung G, Ng G, Lin A. Delayed Skin Allergy to Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplement. Cureus 2023;15(3):e36310. PubMed
- Lila AM, Alekseeva LI, Baranov AA, et al. Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine combination in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis: A long-term observational study in Russia. World J Orthop 2023;14(6):443-457. PubMed
Collagen Peptides 2 references
- Trc T, Bohmová J. Efficacy and tolerance of enzymatic hydrolysed collagen (EHC) vs. glucosamine sulphate (GS) in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Int Orthop. 2011;35(3):341-8. PubMed
- Evans M, Lewis ED, Zakaria N, Pelipyagina T, Guthrie N. A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study to evaluate the efficacy of a freshwater marine collagen on skin wrinkles and elasticity. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20(3):825-834. PubMed
Glucosamine 58 references
- Adams ME. Hype about glucosamine. Lancet 1999;354:353-4. PubMed
- Balkan B, Dunning BE. Glucosamine inhibits glucokinase in vitro and produces a glucose-specific impairment of in vivo insulin secretion in rats. Diabetes 1994;43:1173-9. PubMed
- Giaccari A, Morviducci L, Zorretta D, et al. In vivo effects of glucosamine on insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity in the rat: possible relevance to the maladaptive responses to chronic hyperglycaemia. Diabetologia 1995;38:518-24. PubMed
- Holmang A, Nilsson C, Niklasson M, et al. Induction of insulin resistance by glucosamine reduces blood flow but not interstitial levels of either glucose or insulin. Diabetes 1999;48:106-11. PubMed
- Houpt JB, McMillan R, Wein C, Paget-Dellio SD. Effect of glucosamine hydrochloride in the treatment of pain of osteoarthritis of the knee. J Rheumatol 1999;26:2423-30.
- Barclay TS, Tsourounis C, McCart GM. Glucosamine. Ann Pharmacother 1998;32:574-9.
- Shankar RR, Zhu JS, Baron AD. Glucosamine infusion in rats mimics the beta-cell dysfunction of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 1998;47:573-7.
- Almada A, Harvey P, Platt K. Effects of chronic oral glucosamine sulfate on fasting insulin resistance index (FIRI) in non-diabetic individuals. FASEB J 2000;14:A750.
- Reginster JY, Deroisy R, Rovati LC, et al. Long-term effects of glucosamine sulfate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2001;357:251-6.
- Does glucosamine increase serum lipid levels and blood pressure? Pharmacist's Letter/Prescriber's Letter 2001;17(11):171115.
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
- Monauni T, Zenti MG, Cretti A, et al. Effects of glucosamine infusion on insulin secretion and insulin action in humans. Diabetes 2000;49:926-35. PubMed
- Pouwels MJ, Jacobs JR, Span PN, et al. Short-term glucosamine infusion does not affect insulin sensitivity in humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001;86:2099-103. DOI
- Yun J, Tomida A, Nagata K, Tsuruo T. Glucose-regulated stresses confer resistance to VP-16 in human cancer cells through a decreased expression of DNA topoisomerase II. Oncol Res 1995;7:583-90.
- Pavelka K, Gatterova J, Olejarova M, et al. Glucosamine sulfate use and delay of progression of knee osteoarthritis: A 3-year, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Arch Intern Med 2002;162:2113-23. PubMed
- Tallia AF, Cardone DA. Asthma exacerbation associated with glucosamine-chondroitin supplement. J Am Board Fam Pract 2002;15:481-4..
- Scroggie DA, Albright A, Harris MD. The effect of glucosamine-chondroitin supplementation on glycosylated hemoglobin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial. Arch Intern Med 2003; PubMed
- Hoffer LJ, Kaplan LN, Hamadeh MJ, et al. Sulfate could mediate the therapeutic effect of glucosamine sulfate. Metabolism 2001;50:767-70.. PubMed
- Yu JG, Boies SM, Olefsky JM. The effect of oral glucosamine sulfate on insulin sensitivity in human subjects. Diabetes Care 2003;26:1941-2. PubMed
- Danao-Camara T. Potential side effects of treatment with glucosamine and chondroitin. Arthritis Rheum 2000;43:2853. PubMed
- Guillaume MP, Peretz A. Possible association between glucosamine treatment and renal toxicity: comment on the letter by Danao-Camara. Arthritis Rheum 2001;44:2943-4. PubMed
- Rozenfeld V, Crain JL, Callahan AK. Possible augmentation of warfarin effect by glucosamine-chondroitin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2004;61:306-307. PubMed
- Tannis AJ, Barban J, Conquer JA. Effect of glucosamine supplementation on fasting and non-fasting plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations in healthy individuals. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2004;12:506-11. PubMed
- Bush TM, Rayburn KS, Holloway SW, et al. Adverse interactions between herbal and dietary substances and prescription medications: a clinical survey. Altern Ther Health Med 2007;13:30-5.
- Stumpf JL, Lin SW. Effect of glucosamine on glucose control. Ann Pharmacother 2006;40:694-8. PubMed
- Pham T, Cornea A, Blick KE, et al. Oral glucosamine in doses used to treat osteoarthritis worsens insulin resistance. Am J Med Sci 2007;333:333-9. PubMed
- Muniyappa R, Karne RJ, Hall G, et al. Oral glucosamine for 6 weeks at standard doses does not cause or worsen insulin resistance or endothelial dysfunction in lean or obese subjects. Diabetes 2006;55:3142-50. PubMed
- Knudsen J, Sokol GH. Potential glucosamine-warfarin interaction resulting in increased international normalized ratio: Case report and review of the literature and MedWatch database. Pharmacotherapy 2008;28:540-8. PubMed
- Yue QY, Strandell J, Myrberg O. Concomitant use of glucosamine potentiates the effect of warfarin. Jan 2006. Drug Safety 29(10):911-1010. DOI
- Rozendaal RM, Koes BW, van Osch GJVM, et al. Effect of glucosamine sulfate on hip osteoarthritis: A randomized trial. Ann Intern Med 2008;148:268-77. PubMed
- Baron AD, Zhu JS, Zhu JH, et al. Glucosamine induces insulin resistance in vivo by affecting GLUT 4 translocation in skeletal muscle. Implications for glucose toxicity. J Clin Invest 1995;96(6):2792-801. PubMed
- Nelson BA, Robinson KA, Buse MG. High glucose and glucosamine induce insulin resistance via different mechanisms in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Diabetes 2000;49(6):981-91. PubMed
- Giordano N, Fioravanti A, Papakostas P, et al. The efficacy and tolerability of glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Curr Ther Res Clin Exp 2009;70(3):185-196. PubMed
- Shaygannejad, V., Janghorbani, M., Savoj, M. R., and Ashtari, F. Effects of adjunct glucosamine sulfate on relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis progression: preliminary findings of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Neurol Res 2010;32(9):981-985. PubMed
- Cahlin, B. J. and Dahlstrom, L. No effect of glucosamine sulfate on osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joints--a randomized, controlled, short-term study. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2011;112(6):760-766. PubMed
- Cerda C, Bruguera M, Parés A. Hepatotoxicity associated with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in patients with chronic liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2013;19(32):5381-4. PubMed
- Hochberg MC, Martel-Pelletier J, Monfort J, Möller I, Castillo JR, Arden N,Berenbaum F, Blanco FJ, Conaghan PG, Doménech G, Henrotin Y, Pap T, Richette P, Sawitzke A, du Souich P, Pelletier JP; on behalf of the MOVES Investigation Group. Combined chondroi
- von Felden J, Montani M, Kessebohm K, Stickel F. Drug-induced acute liver injury mimicking autoimmune hepatitis after intake of dietary supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2013;51(3):219-23. PubMed
- Provenza JR, Shinjo SK, Silva JM, Peron CR, Rocha FA. Combined glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, once or three times daily, provides clinically relevant analgesia in knee osteoarthritis. Clin Rheumatol 2015;34:1455-62. PubMed
- Ossendza RA, Grandval P, Chinoune F, Rocher F, Chapel F, Bernardini D. [Acute cholestatic hepatitis due to glucosamine forte]. Gastroenterol Clin Biol. 2007 Apr;31(4):449-50.
- Audimoolam VK, Bhandari S. Acute interstitial nephritis induced by glucosamine. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2006;21(7):2031. PubMed
- Greenlee H, Crew KD, Shao T, Kranwinkel G, Kalinsky K, Maurer M, Brafman L, Insel B, Tsai WY, Hershman DL. Phase II study of glucosamine with chondroitin on aromatase inhibitor-associated joint symptoms in women with breast cancer. Support Care Cancer 201 PubMed
- Wilkens, P., Scheel, I. B., Grundnes, O., Hellum, C., and Storheim, K. Effect of glucosamine on pain-related disability in patients with chronic low back pain and degenerative lumbar osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2010;304(1):45-52. PubMed
- Simon RR, Marks V, Leeds AR, Anderson JW. A comprehensive review of oral glucosamine use and effects on glucose metabolism in normal and diabetic individuals. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2011;27(1):14-27. PubMed
- Smidt D, Torpet LA, Nauntofte B, Heegaard KM, Pedersen AM. Associations between labial and whole salivary flow rates, systemic diseases and medications in a sample of older people. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010;38(5):422-35. PubMed
- Wangroongsub Y, Tanavalee A, Wilairatana V, Ngarmukos S. Comparable clinical outcomes between glucosamine sulfate-potassium chloride and glucosamine sulfate sodium chloride in patients with mild and moderate knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind
- Chopra A, Saluja M, Tillu G, Venugopalan A, Sarmukaddam S, Raut AK, Bichile L, Narsimulu G, Handa R, Patwardhan B. A Randomized Controlled Exploratory Evaluation of Standardized Ayurvedic Formulations in Symptomatic Osteoarthritis Knees: A Government of I
- Swinburne LM. Glucosamine sulphate and osteoarthritis. Lancet 2001;357(9268):1617. PubMed
- Murphy RK, Ketzler L, Rice RD, Johnson SM, Doss MS, Jaccoma EH. Oral glucosamine supplements as a possible ocular hypertensive agent. JAMA Ophthalmol 2013;131(7):955-7. PubMed
- Kimball AB, Kaczvinsky JR, Li J, et al. Reduction in the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation after use of moisturizers with a combination of topical niacinamide and N-acetyl glucosamine: results of a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial.
- Ma H, Li X, Sun D, et al. Association of habitual glucosamine use with risk of cardiovascular disease: prospective study in UK Biobank. BMJ. 2019 May 14;365:l1628. PubMed
- Hoban C, Byard R, Musgrave I. Hypersensitive adverse drug reactions to glucosamine and chondroitin preparations in Australia between 2000 and 2011. Postgrad Med J. 2019 Oct 9. pii: postgradmedj-2019-136957. PubMed
- Tenti S, Veronese N, Cheleschi S, et al. Prescription-grade crystalline glucosamine sulfate as an add-on therapy to conventional treatments in erosive osteoarthritis of the hand: results from a 6-month observational retrospective study. Aging Clin Exp Res PubMed
- Yu H, Wu J, Chen H, et al. Glucosamine use is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients with osteoarthritis: results from a large study in 685,778 subjects. Nutrients 2022;14(18):3694. PubMed
- Chu EC, Huang KHK, Cheung G, Ng G, Lin A. Delayed Skin Allergy to Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplement. Cureus 2023;15(3):e36310. PubMed
- Lila AM, Alekseeva LI, Baranov AA, et al. Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine combination in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis: A long-term observational study in Russia. World J Orthop 2023;14(6):443-457. PubMed
- Lehrer S, Morello T, Karrasch C, Rheinstein PH, Danias J. Effect of Glucosamine on Intraocular Pressure and Risk of Developing Glaucoma. J Glaucoma 2023. PubMed
- Rabade A, Viswanatha GL, Nandakumar K, Kishore A. Evaluation of efficacy and safety of glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and their combination regimen in the management of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Inflammopharmac PubMed
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC