CARTEXAN 400 mg Capsules

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Talk to a doctor about this medicine

Talk to a doctor about this medicine

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps in a quick online consultation.

Doctor
5.0(36)

Andrei Popov

General medicinePain medicine7 years of experience

Dr. Andrei Popov is a family physician with specialized training in the management of chronic pain. He provides video consultations for adults in Spain and across Europe: whether you have been living with pain for months that no one has been able to properly explain, or you need to resolve a health issue without waiting weeks for an appointment.

His approach is clear: to listen, organize your case, and provide you with a practical roadmap based on evidence-based medicine and adapted to your medical history and personal needs.

Pain: how he can help

  • Chronic pain (more than 3 months
  • Migraine and recurrent or high-intensity headaches
  •  Neck, lower back, back and joint pain
  •  Post-traumatic pain after injuries or surgeries
  •  Pain of neurological origin: neuralgia, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia

General medicine

  • Frequent respiratory infections (cold, flu, persistent cough)
  • Hypertension, diabetes and metabolic disorders
  • Review of laboratory tests and MRI/CT reports (explained in clear language)
  • Preventive medicine and health monitoring
  • Second opinions and treatment adjustments (when clinically appropriate)

What the consultation is like
 Each session lasts up to 30 minutes. We review symptoms, medical history, medications and any tests you provide, and you finish the consultation with a clear treatment plan, defined next steps, and criteria to understand when follow-up may be needed. If warning signs are detected, he will clearly advise whether you need in-person care or urgent medical attention.

Book a video appointment
€86
This page is for general information. Consult a doctor for personal advice. Call emergency services if symptoms are severe.
About the medicine

How to use Cartexan

Contents of the leaflet

  1. Package Leaflet: Information for the User
  2. Cartexan, 400 mg, Hard Capsules
    1. Read the Package Leaflet Carefully Before Taking the Medication, as it Contains Important Information for the Patient.
  3. What is Cartexan and What is it Used For
  4. Important Information Before Taking Cartexan
    1. When Not to Take Cartexan
    2. Warnings and Precautions
    3. Children
    4. Cartexan and Other Medications
    5. Cartexan with Food and Drink
    6. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
    7. Driving and Operating Machinery
  5. How to Take Cartexan
    1. Use in Children
    2. Overdose of Cartexan
    3. Missed Dose of Cartexan:
    4. Stopping Cartexan Treatment
  6. Possible Side Effects
    1. Uncommon Side Effects (affecting up to 1 in 1,000 users):
    2. Rare Side Effects (affecting up to 1 in 10,000 users):
    3. Reporting Side Effects
  7. How to Store Cartexan
  8. Contents of the Pack and Other Information
    1. What Cartexan Contains
    2. What Cartexan Looks Like and Contents of the Pack
    3. Marketing Authorization Holder and Manufacturer
    4. Marketing Authorization Holder
    5. Manufacturer
    6. This Medicinal Product is Authorized in the Member States of the European Economic Area Under the Following Names:
    7. Countries:
    8. Date of Last Revision of the Leaflet: 10/2024

Package Leaflet: Information for the User

Cartexan, 400 mg, Hard Capsules

Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate

Read the Package Leaflet Carefully Before Taking the Medication, as it Contains Important Information for the Patient.

  • Keep this leaflet, you may need to read it again.
  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
  • This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.
  • If you experience any side effects, including any not listed in this leaflet, please inform your doctor or pharmacist. See section 4.

Table of Contents of the Leaflet:

  • 1. What is Cartexan and What is it Used For
  • 2. Important Information Before Taking Cartexan
  • 3. How to Take Cartexan
  • 4. Possible Side Effects
  • 5. How to Store Cartexan
  • 6. Contents of the Pack and Other Information
Doctor consultation

Not sure if this medicine is right for you?

Discuss your symptoms and treatment with a doctor online.

1. What is Cartexan and What is it Used For

The active substance of Cartexan, sodium chondroitin sulfate, is a substance that occurs naturally in the human body. It is one of the structural elements of joint cartilage.
Cartexan is used for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip joints. The drug is characterized by a slow onset of action, which occurs within 6 to 8 weeks, therefore, for the treatment of acute and short-term pain, it is recommended to use other medications. The effects of treatment usually last for 2 to 3 months after discontinuation of treatment.
If there is no improvement or the patient feels worse, they should consult a doctor.

2. Important Information Before Taking Cartexan

When Not to Take Cartexan

  • if the patient is allergic to chondroitin sulfate or any of the other ingredients of this medication (listed in section 6).

Warnings and Precautions

Before starting treatment with Cartexan, the patient should discuss it with their doctor or pharmacist.

  • if the patient has heart disease (heart failure) or kidney failure. Cartexan may cause fluid accumulation in the body and swelling.
  • if the patient has liver failure.
  • if the patient is taking medications that affect blood clotting (such as acetylsalicylic acid, dipyridamole, or clopidogrel).
  • if the patient is taking painkillers, as the use of chondroitin sulfate may reduce the need for painkillers.

Children

Cartexan is not recommended for use in children.

Cartexan and Other Medications

The patient should inform their doctor or pharmacist about all medications they are currently taking or have recently taken, as well as any medications they plan to take. This is especially important for medications that affect blood clotting (such as warfarin, acetylsalicylic acid, dipyridamole, or clopidogrel).
If the patient is taking warfarin, after starting or stopping Cartexan, the doctor may order more frequent INR checks.

Cartexan with Food and Drink

Cartexan can be taken before, during, or after meals. If the patient is prone to stomach problems, the medication should be taken after a meal.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, thinks they may be pregnant, or plans to have a child, they should consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication.
There is no data on the use of Cartexan during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and therefore, the medication should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Driving and Operating Machinery

It has not been shown that Cartexan affects the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Medicine questions

Started taking the medicine and have questions?

Discuss your symptoms and treatment with a doctor online.

3. How to Take Cartexan

This medication should always be taken as directed by the doctor. In case of doubts, the patient should consult their doctor or pharmacist.
The capsules should not be chewed, they should be swallowed whole, with a sufficient amount of liquid (e.g., a glass of water).
The recommended dose is 800 mg, i.e., 2 capsules in one daily dose taken for three months.
In more severe cases, the recommended dose is 1200 mg, i.e., 3 capsules per day for the first 4 to 6 weeks of treatment, and then 800 mg in one daily dose until the end of the three-month treatment period. The daily dose of 1200 mg can be taken once or divided into three doses, i.e., 1 capsule three times a day.
Treatment consists of repeated periods of three-month treatment with two-month breaks without taking the medication.

Use in Children

Cartexan is not recommended for children.

Overdose of Cartexan

One report of unintentional or intentional overdose without consequences for the patient (no vomiting, nausea, or changes in blood electrolyte levels occurred) has been received. Based on studies, no harmful effects or symptoms are expected. In case of overdose, the patient should always contact the Toxicological Information Center (tel. 607 218 174).

Missed Dose of Cartexan:

No special effects are expected. The patient should not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose, they should continue treatment by taking the normal dose the next day.

Stopping Cartexan Treatment

No special effects are expected.
In case of any further doubts about the use of this medication, the patient should consult their doctor or pharmacist.

4. Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Cartexan can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Uncommon Side Effects (affecting up to 1 in 1,000 users):

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Gastrointestinal disorders (such as upper abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea).
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders:Redness, papular rash, irritating dermatitis.

Rare Side Effects (affecting up to 1 in 10,000 users):

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders:eczema, itching, urticaria.
General Disorders:Edema.

Reporting Side Effects

If any side effects occur, including any not listed in this leaflet, the patient should inform their doctor or pharmacist. Side effects can be reported directly to the national reporting system:
Department of Monitoring of Adverse Reactions to Medicinal Products, Office for Registration of Medicinal Products, Medical Devices, and Biocidal Products
Al. Jerozolimskie 181C
02-222 Warsaw
Phone: +48 22 49 21 301
Fax: +48 22 49 21 309
Website: https://smz.ezdrowie.gov.pl
Side effects can also be reported to the marketing authorization holder.
Reporting side effects will help to gather more information on the safety of this medication.

5. How to Store Cartexan

The medication should be stored out of sight and reach of children.
Do not store above 30°C. Store in the original packaging to protect from moisture.
Do not use this medication after the expiry date stated on the carton and blister pack after "Expiry Date:". The expiry date refers to the last day of the month stated.
Medications should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste containers. The patient should ask their pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed. This will help protect the environment.

6. Contents of the Pack and Other Information

What Cartexan Contains

  • The active substance of Cartexan is Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate. Each capsule contains 400 mg of sodium chondroitin sulfate.
  • Other ingredients: magnesium stearate. The excipients in the capsule shell are gelatin, titanium dioxide (E171), indigo carmine (E132), quinoline yellow (E104).

What Cartexan Looks Like and Contents of the Pack

Cartexan capsules are available in packs of 24, 60, and 180 capsules. The bulk pack contains 180 (3 packs of 60) capsules.
Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorization Holder and Manufacturer

Marketing Authorization Holder

REIG JOFRE Sp. z o.o.
ul. Ostródzka 74N
03-289 Warsaw
Poland

Manufacturer

NOUCOR HEALTH, S.A.
Avda. Camí Reial, 51-57.
08184 Palau-Solità i Plegamans. Barcelona
Spain

This Medicinal Product is Authorized in the Member States of the European Economic Area Under the Following Names:

Countries:

Austria, Finland, Hungary, and Poland - Cartexan
Czech Republic - Condrodin

Date of Last Revision of the Leaflet: 10/2024

  • Cartexan
  • Country of registration
  • Dosage form
    Capsules, 400 mg
  • ATC code
    M01AX25
  • Active substance
  • Prescription required
    Yes
  • Manufacturer
  • Importer
    NOUCOR HEALTH, S.A.
  • Alternatives to Cartexan
    Dosage form: Tablets, 800 mg
    Active substance: chondroitin sulfate
    Prescription required
    Dosage form: Solution, (400 mg + 10 mg)/2 ml
    Active substance: glucosamine
    Prescription required
    Dosage form: Powder, 1500 mg
    Active substance: glucosamine
    Prescription required

Online doctors for Cartexan

Discuss questions about Cartexan, including use, safety considerations and prescription review, subject to medical assessment and local regulations.

Doctor
5.0(36)

Andrei Popov

General medicinePain medicine7 years of experience

Dr. Andrei Popov is a family physician with specialized training in the management of chronic pain. He provides video consultations for adults in Spain and across Europe: whether you have been living with pain for months that no one has been able to properly explain, or you need to resolve a health issue without waiting weeks for an appointment.

His approach is clear: to listen, organize your case, and provide you with a practical roadmap based on evidence-based medicine and adapted to your medical history and personal needs.

Pain: how he can help

  • Chronic pain (more than 3 months
  • Migraine and recurrent or high-intensity headaches
  •  Neck, lower back, back and joint pain
  •  Post-traumatic pain after injuries or surgeries
  •  Pain of neurological origin: neuralgia, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia

General medicine

  • Frequent respiratory infections (cold, flu, persistent cough)
  • Hypertension, diabetes and metabolic disorders
  • Review of laboratory tests and MRI/CT reports (explained in clear language)
  • Preventive medicine and health monitoring
  • Second opinions and treatment adjustments (when clinically appropriate)

What the consultation is like
 Each session lasts up to 30 minutes. We review symptoms, medical history, medications and any tests you provide, and you finish the consultation with a clear treatment plan, defined next steps, and criteria to understand when follow-up may be needed. If warning signs are detected, he will clearly advise whether you need in-person care or urgent medical attention.

Book a video appointment
€86
Doctor
5.0(19)

Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicineGeneral medicine18 years of experience

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
  • Family medicine: hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, chronic disease management
  • Travel medicine: pre-travel advice, vaccinations, fit-to-fly certificates, travel-related illnesses
  • Sexual and reproductive health: PrEP, STD prevention, counselling, treatment
  • Weight management and wellness: personalised weight loss programmes, lifestyle guidance
  • Skin and ENT issues: acne, eczema, allergies, rashes, sore throat, sinusitis
  • Pain management: acute and chronic pain, post-surgical care
  • Public health: prevention, health screenings, long-term monitoring
  • Sick leave (Baixa médica) connected to Segurança Social in Portugal
  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

Book a video appointment
€70
Doctor
0.0(0)

Hocine Lokchiri

General medicine21 years of experience

Dr. Hocine Lokchiri is a French consultant with over 20 years of experience in General and Emergency Medicine. He works with adults and children, helping patients with urgent symptoms, infections, sudden health changes and everyday medical concerns that require timely evaluation. His background includes clinical practice in France, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates, which allows him to navigate different healthcare systems and manage a wide range of conditions with confidence. Patients value his calm, structured approach, clear explanations and evidence-based decision-making.

Online consultations with Dr. Lokchiri are suitable for many situations when someone needs quick medical guidance, reassurance or a clear next step. Common reasons for booking include:

  • fever, chills, fatigue and viral symptoms
  • cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, breathing discomfort
  • bronchitis and mild asthma flare-ups
  • nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, digestive infections
  • rashes, allergic reactions, redness, insect bites
  • muscle or joint pain, mild injuries, sprains
  • headache, dizziness, migraine symptoms
  • stress-related symptoms, sleep disturbances
  • questions about test results and treatment plans
  • management of chronic conditions in stable phases
Many patients reach out when symptoms appear suddenly and cause concern, when a child becomes unwell unexpectedly, when a rash changes or spreads, or when it’s unclear whether an in-person examination is necessary. His emergency medicine background is particularly valuable online, helping patients understand risk levels, identify warning signs and choose safe next steps.

Some situations are not suitable for online care. If a patient has loss of consciousness, severe chest pain, uncontrolled bleeding, seizures, major trauma or symptoms suggesting a stroke or heart attack, he will advise seeking immediate local emergency services. This improves safety and ensures patients receive the right level of care.

Dr. Lokchiri’s professional training includes:

  • Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS)
  • Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (BLS/ACLS)
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
  • Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS)
  • eFAST and critical care transthoracic echocardiography
  • aviation medicine
He is an active member of several professional organisations, including the French Society of Emergency Medicine (SFMU), the French Association for Emergency Physicians (AMUF) and the Swiss Society of Emergency and Rescue Medicine (SGNOR). In consultations, he works with clarity and precision, helping patients understand their symptoms, possible risks and the safest treatment options.
Book a video appointment
€64

Get Cartexan Prescription Online

1

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Tell us your symptoms, history, and what medicine you're requesting.

2

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3

Doctor reviews your case

Usually within 30 minutes. They may ask follow-up questions via chat.

4

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Electronic prescription sent to your email — valid across Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a prescription required for Cartexan?

Cartexan requires a prescription in Poland. You can check with a doctor online whether this medicine may be appropriate for your situation.

What is the active substance in Cartexan?

The active ingredient in Cartexan is chondroitin sulfate. This information helps identify medicines with the same composition but different brand names.

Who manufactures Cartexan?

Cartexan is manufactured by NOUCOR HEALTH, S.A.. Pharmacy brands and packaging may differ depending on the distributor.

Which doctors can assess the use of Cartexan online?

Doctors such as Family doctors, Psychiatrists, Dermatologists, Cardiologists, Endocrinologists, Gastroenterologists, Pulmonologists, Nephrologists, Rheumatologists, Hematologists, Infectious disease physicians, Allergists, Geriatricians, Paediatricians, Oncologists may assess whether Cartexan is appropriate, depending on your situation and local regulations. You can book an online consultation to discuss your symptoms and possible next steps.

How to buy Cartexan in Spain?

Spain has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure across major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. Pharmacies are widely available and operate under strict regulations, ensuring access to prescribed medications.

You can buy Cartexan in Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, or Valencia at any local pharmacy with a valid prescription.

To obtain a prescription, you can use Oladoctor:

What are the alternatives to Cartexan?

Other medicines with the same active substance (chondroitin sulfate) include Condromed, Arthril Fast, Arthril. These may have different brand names or formulations but contain the same therapeutic ingredient. Always consult a doctor before switching or starting a new medicine.

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