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The effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin for knee osteoarthritis remains controversial; numerous trials have been conducted, with varying results. In the largest randomized placebo-controlled trial, which involved 1583 patients, neither of these agents — nor their combination — improved outcomes compared with placebo (NEJM JW Gen Med Nov 1 2010 and BMJ 2010; 341:c4675). Now, researchers have conducted another large trial in which 605 Australian patients received daily glucosamine sulfate (1500 mg), chondroitin sulfate (800 mg), both drugs, or double placebo. Enrollment criteria included chronic knee pain and evidence of osteoarthritis on weight-bearing knee x-rays (narrowing of medial joint space but retention of at least 2 mm of jo…