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Shellfish Allergy Leads to Hospitalization

Q. My husband’s internist suggested glucosamine and chondroitin for mild arthritis. My husband’s medical records state that he is allergic to shellfish.

I guess his doctor did not know ground shellfish is a component of many glucosamine-chondroitin supplements. After several days on the supplement, my husband was rushed to the hospital with symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. After three days of testing, they couldn’t find a cause. Then I read the ingredients listed on the glucosamine label and discovered the shellfish.

He stopped taking the supplement and has not had another episode. Perhaps his story will help prevent a similar occurrence in others with shellfish allergy.

A. Glucosamine is often made from the shells of crab, shrimp and lobster. Most people who are allergic to shellfish are sensitive to a protein in the muscle rather than the shell. But rather than risk a potentially life-threatening reaction, people who are allergic to shellfish should avoid glucosamine or look for Kosher vegetarian glucosamine called Regenasure.

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About the Author
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist who has dedicated his career to making drug information understandable to consumers. His best-selling book, The People’s Pharmacy, was published in 1976 and led to a syndicated newspaper column, syndicated public radio show and web site. In 2006, Long Island University awarded him an honorary doctorate as “one of the country's leading drug experts for the consumer.”.
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