0290Medication name
Generic name:
Hyaluronate - injection
Pronunciation
(HYE-a-loo-RON-ate)
Brand name(s)
Hyalgan , Synvisc
Uses
This medication is used to treat knee pain in patients with joint inflammation (osteoarthritis). It is usually used in patients who have not responded to other treatments such as acetaminophen, exercise, or physical therapy. Hyaluronate (also known as hyaluronan) is similar to a substance that occurs naturally in the joints. It may work by acting as a lubricant and shock absorber in the joint, helping the knee to move smoothly, thereby lessening pain.
How to use
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your health care professional before you start using hyaluronate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into the affected joint by a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually once a week. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Extra fluid may need to be removed from the joint before the medication is injected.
Skin disinfectants that contain ammonium salts (such as benzalkonium chloride) should not be used to prepare the injection site. Hyaluronate should not be injected into a vein or artery because increased side effects may occur.
After receiving an injection of hyaluronate, you should avoid any activities that put stress on your knee (such as jogging, tennis, heavy lifting, standing on your feet for more than an hour) for 48 hours. Also, after the injection, you may experience increased pain and swelling in the knee at first. If the pain or swelling continues or worsens, talk to your doctor promptly.
It is important to have this medication injected on schedule. It may take up to 3 injections before the full benefits of this medication occur.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side effects
See also How to Use section.
Pain, swelling, redness/warmth/bruising at the injection site, or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
- back pain
- severe headache
- fast/pounding heartbeat
- fever
- tingling skin
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using hyaluronate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. For some brands, also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to bird proteins, feathers, or egg products. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as latex found in the rubber syringe cap of some brands), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- knee joint infections
- skin infections/problems in the area around the injection site
- circulation problems in the legs
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Notes
Non-drug treatments for osteoarthritis include exercising, doing physical therapy, losing weight, having extra fluid removed from the knee, and avoiding activities that cause pain in your knee.
Missed dose
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.
Storage
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.
Important note
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Information last revised May 2024.
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