Joint supplements for horses

The main ingredients in joint supplements—glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid—help build, repair and protect joint tissue and fluid.

Glucosamine is the building block of chondroitin sulfate, a specific type of polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG).

Cartilage is a natural shock absorber in equine joints which prevents their bones from rubbing together

Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring chemicals found inside the horses body which assist in the production of cartilage

Glucosamine HCl will increase the Hyaluronate content in the joint. Hyaluronate is a fundamental component of synovial fluid the joint lubricant.

Glucosamine has also been shown to inhibit the enzymes that break down cartilage.

This small but complex sugar molecule has an important role in both the production and protection of joints.

Chondroitin sulfate is synthesized by chondrocytes, the living cells inside cartilage.

Chondroitin sulfate, a sulfated glycosaminoglycan naturally found as a part of a proteoglycan (aggrecan), is a crucial constituent of connective tissue and cartilage, where it provides structure, resistance and holds water and nutrients

Chondroitin sulfate is a main component of the extracellular matrix and the highly charged sulfate groups, which are tightly packed, provide the compression resistance that is important for proper cartilage function.

Hyaluronic acid is a nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) that is synthesized in two places: by the chondrocyte cells in cartilage and by the synoviocyte cells in the joint lining. 
It is normal constituents of connective tissue matrix and synovial fluid.It accounts for high viscosity of synovial fluid.

It is an integral component of both joint cartilage and joint fluid, providing lubrication between surfaces. 
In joint injury the viscosity of joints decreases due to leakage of synovial fluids.

Some joint supplements include other ingredients, known as co-factors, such as:

MSM—source of organic sulfur to help form the cartilage matrix, also has anti-inflammatory properties
Vitamin C—required for collagen formation, also has anti-oxidant properties
Manganese, copper and zinc—needed for the synthesis of GAGs and collagen