N-acetyl-D-glucosamine is a nutritional supplement derived from glucose; it is classified as a monosaccharide, a part of the carbohydrate family. It is sometimes used to help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and Crohn's disease. In addition to taking it as a supplement, it also can be consumed as part of a balanced diet that includes shellfish.
N-acetyl-D-glucosamine may also be found in various commercial products such as night creams, lotions and anti-wrinkle creams.
Amino sugars are also partly formed by N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, and it may be able to inhibit the synthesis of certain bacterial proteins in the body. It may also help to increase the skin's elasticity and to support the formation of healthy blood cells. It commonly is taken as a dietary supplement.
