I have been taking glucosamine for 3+ years and it has not been a problem. I would prefer taking more chromium (to help with blood sugar control) than to be in so much pain when trying to walk.

My understanding is that the prescription drugs for joint pain are COX-2 inhibitors. Several herbs will do this naturally.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&...ric+cox&spell=1

http://www.vitacost.com/articleResu...=1&Ntt=turmeric

http://www.vitacost.com/articleResu...cox%20inhibitor

It usually takes them about 2 to 4 weeks to be effective. Note that sometimes you don't realize how effective they are until two weeks after you stop taking them.