My side effects appeared after 4 months. At first it was just a tingling numbness in the areas where I slept on. After 6 months came the finger stiffness in the morning but went away after a few minutes of stretching. Now at 9 months, it comes back when I lie down. The joint pains are more pronounced but tolerable. I used to take it at night, but switched to morning. Not sure if that helps.