 Earlier studies had shown that glucosamine sulfate is effective in relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis also over shorter treatment courses few weeks or months, in comparison with placebo. In addition, glucosamine sulfate efficacy in short studies was at least comparable to that of unspecific symptomatic medications such as conventional NSAIDs, whilst being better tolerated. However, all practice guidelines for the treatment of osteoarthritis suggest acetaminophen paracetamol as the oral analgesic to try first and, if successful, the preferred long-term symptomatic medication. 