Posted: November 15, 2005

Sportsmedicine: Study From National Institutes of Health Supports Use of Glucosamine and Chondroitin, as Found in Move Free(R) Joint Care Products, to Treat Moderate to Severe Pain

SALT LAKE CITY, Nov. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The natural supplements industry received significant news today when the National Institutes of Health (NIH) released the results of its highly anticipated Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) involving the use of the nutrients glucosamine and/or chondroitin by individuals experiencing pain from osteoarthritis. Presented at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego, the study demonstrates strong support for the use of a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin by osteoarthritis patients to relieve moderate to severe pain.

"As a pioneer in the glucosamine/chondroitin category, we are thrilled with the results of this large-scale study," said Dr. Luke R. Bucci, vice president of research at Schiff Nutrition International. "The findings further support the growing scientific literature demonstrating the benefits of natural supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin in promoting joint health -- and that's great news for those who suffer from osteoarthritis."

The five-year study, sponsored by the NIH, assessed the effectiveness and safety of glucosamine and chondroitin -- either used alone or combined. The study concluded that a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin was proven to be even more effective than prescription pain medication in treating moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis. These findings were mirrored by the results from a second study, the European-based Glucosamine Unum in Die Efficacy (GUIDE) Trial, which was also presented at the ACR's Annual Scientific Meeting. The results of the GUIDE Trial concluded that glucosamine sulfate (1,500 mg/day) was more effective than acetaminophen (3,000 mg/day) on various pain and mobility indices of osteoarthritis.

Healthy cartilage -- the smooth, elastic padding that covers the ends of bones -- absorbs energy from the shock of physical movement, and allows bones to glide over one another. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage wears away due to natural aging, sports injuries or repetitive motion -- allowing bones to rub together, causing pain, swelling and loss of motion in the joint. Osteoarthritis affects more than 21 million Americans.

The glucosamine/chondroitin blend in Schiff's Move Free(R) products -- the same nutrients used by the NIH in its trial -- is designed to support joint cartilage and maintain healthy joint function. Glucosamine, a natural amino sugar produced by the body, plays an important role in providing the stimulus for building healthy cartilage. Chondroitin, a naturally occurring nutrient in the connective tissue, attracts water to the area, and it makes the cartilage more elastic and better able to absorb shock. In addition, Move Free products also contain Joint Fluid (hyaluronic acid), a component of synovial fluid -- the natural lubrication that allows joints to glide easily and smoothly over one another. Importantly, a recent independent study showed that a blend of glucosamine/chondroitin with the addition of Joint Fluid was more effective in providing joint comfort than glucosamine/chondroitin alone.

The best selling Move Free joint care line includes Move Free(R) Double Strength, Move Free(R) Triple Strength and Move Free(R) Plus MSM. Move Free products are available at club stores, mass merchandisers, grocery stores, pharmacies, health food and drug stores nationwide.

About Schiff Nutrition International
Schiff Nutrition International, Inc. (NYSE: WNI), a leader in the dietary supplement industry since its beginnings 65 years ago, is one of the most trusted and respected brands due to its focus on research, innovations and delivery of high quality supplements. A pioneer in the glucosamine/chondroitin category, Schiff is the maker of the best selling Move Free(R) joint care supplements. Schiff emphasizes the use of the finest natural ingredients to ensure that its products meet strict standards for labeled potency, purity and stability. Based in Salt Lake City, Schiff develops, manufactures, markets and sells branded and private label vitamins and nutritional supplements in the United States and throughout the world. For more information, consumers may call 1-800-526-6251 or visit SchiffVitamins.com.