Chondroitin Sulfate B (CSB) is now commonly referred to as Dermatan sulphate. Chemically, it is a gycosaminoglycan that can be found in animal tissues such as tendons, heart valves, lungs, blood and vessels. It is also present in the dermis of the skin that helps maintain its viscoelasticity. It is often used as an alternative medicine for osteoarthritis treatment. It works by binding to collagen and elastin to create cartilage which aids in alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms and slows down the progression of the disease. Aside from healing the already damaged tissues in the joints, it also helps keep the joints lubricated. Chondroitin Sulfate B also has anti-inflammatory properties that lessen the pains caused by osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine is derived from chitin found in shells of crabs, shrimp, and oysters. There is sufficient scientific evidence to prove that glucosamine sulfate is both safe and effective for treating mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. Research also indicates analgesic and disease-modifying effects of glucosamine sulfate. However, this does not imply that side effects of glucosamine sulfate do not exist. Short term use of glucosamine sulfate may lead to minor side effects such as insomnia, headache, drowsiness, heartburn, constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea and in rare cases, increase in blood pressure and heart rate and palpitations. People with bleeding disorders should not take glucosamine supplements without consulting their physician. These supplements should also be avoided by those allergic to shellfish, which happens to be the primary source of glucosamine.