Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the risks?

All participants are carefully screened to minimise the risks.

People with shellfish allergies are excluded from the study.

Diabetics need to monitor their blood glucose levels when they start taking the Study capsules and adjust their diabetic medications accordingly.

People on warfarin should have their INR checked shortly after starting the Study treatment.

What about if I'm already taking glucosmine?

As long as you are willing to stop your own glucosamine and chondroitin you are welcome to join the study.

How will I benefit from participation?

By being part of this study you will be helping determine whether dietary supplements should form part of the standard recommended medical management of osteoarthritis worldwide. While we intend that this research study furthers medical knowledge to ultimately improve the treatment of osteoarthritis in the future, it may not be of direct benefit to you. You will however, receive all study treatment capsules and knee x-rays free of charge. Participation in the LEGS study will allow us to monitor your knees closely over a two year period while providing useful information to your GP.

Will my personal details be confidential?

Any information which may identify you directly will be strictly confidential and only your GP and direct LEGS study staff will have access to this information.

What if I decide to withdraw from the study?

Participation in this study is entirely voluntary: you are not obliged to participate and if you do participate you can withdraw at any time. Whatever your decision, it will not affect your medical treatment or your relationship with your GP.

Who is conducting the study?

The study is being conducted by The George Institute for International Health affiliated with The University of Sydney, in collaboration with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, Clinical Pharmacology (St Vincents Hospital) and the Department of Rheumatology (St George Hospital and Royal North Shore Hospital).

The LEGS study has been funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC).

What if I want to take part in the study?

Please read the Patient Brochure [PDF 834KB].

Phone one of the LEGS Research Officers on 02 9657 0351 between 9:00am - 5pm, Monday to Friday to arrange for LEGS study information and paperwork to be sent to your GP.

During your next consultation, ask your GP to confirm your study eligibility and complete the LEGS Study Screening and X-ray Request forms.

What are the orange stickers on the study treatment cartons and Participant Diary?

After randomisation, the orange sticker indicates your unique randomisation number. Let us know immediately if the number on the sticker changes, by calling on 02 9657 0351.

How long do I need to take the study treatment capsules?

You will need to take the two white and two yellow capsules daily for two years. The LEGS study will determine whether glucosamine and/ or chondroitin slow down the rate of joint destruction. Therefore it is important to take all four capsules daily, whether your knee is painful or not.

Are there any side-effects?

There are no known side-effects from glucosamine or chondroitin in the dosage provided.

Can I use any analgesics while I am participating in the LEGS study?

Yes, you can. It is recommended that you use analgesics only as required, and that you:

Start with paracetamol up to the maximum recommended dose.
If the maximum dose of paracetamol is not providing sufficient pain relief, add non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) only if recommended by your GP.

When and how should I take the study capsules?

Take two white and two yellow capsules each day. Take the two white capsules at the same time of day e.g., take both at breakfast time. The yellow capsules can be taken separately or together. Try to swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water. Do not chew the capsules.

What should I do if I forget to take my capsules?

If you forget to take your capsules at your usual time, take them as soon as you remember on that day. Do not double-dose by taking more than four capsules on the same day. Simply resume taking two white and two yellow capsules daily.

How should I store my capsules?

Keep your capsules in their blister pack until it is time to take them.

Keep the study treatment in a dry place at a temperature below 30�C.

What do I do with the unused capsules in the green zippered bag?

Please bring this bag and its contents with you when you attend the annual follow-up assessments.