Synvisc (generic name: hylan G-F 20), also known as Synvisc One, is a viscosupplementation injection. Viscosupplementation treatment involves injecting a gel-like fluid called hyaluronic acid into the knee joint and is used to treat the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Synvisc is a hyaluronan-based product that provides lubrication and cushioning to the knee joint.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug as a medical injection. It can be administered as a series of three intra-articular injections or a single injection (Synvisc One).
Synvisc works by providing cushioning and lubrication to the knee joint. This can reduce pain, improve mobility and reduce inflammation. It is also used to improve joint function and reduce the need for pain medications.
Synvisc must be injected by a healthcare professional into the knee joint. Healthcare providers are trained regarding specific injection techniques with the right amount of product to ensure the best results.
What Is Synvisc Used To Treat?
Synvisc is a prescription-based drug used to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA) in the knee. The drug is available as an injection that helps reduce pain, improve joint function and mobility, and reduce stiffness caused by OA.
It is composed of an artificial form of a natural fluid called hyaluronan that helps lubricate and cushion joints.
OA is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people around the world. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions the bones in the joint.
Over time, the cartilage wears down, and the bones rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness. In severe cases, OA can lead to disability.
Synvisc may be used to treat OA when other treatments such as simple analgesics, or exercise and physical therapy have not been successful. It is typically given as three injections, one week apart, over three weeks. The injections are administered directly into the affected knee joint.
How Does Synvisc Work? Mechanism Of Action
Synvisc is made of a naturally occurring substance called hyaluronan, found in the synovial fluid that lubricates the knee joints. The injection works by providing a cushion between the bones in the knee joint, reducing pain and improving joint mobility.
Synvisc also temporarily restores the knee joint’s normal lubricating properties and helps the body build new hyaluronan.
How Is Synvisc Used?
Here is how Synvisc is commonly used:
- It is administered as an injection into the knee joint.
- The drug is presented in a single-dose syringe, which should be used within a single session.
- Synvisc is usually given three times, once a week, over three weeks.
- Taking pain medication before the injection, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), is recommended to reduce the risk of pain or discomfort.
- After the injection, patients should rest their knees for the rest of the day and apply ice or heat to the area for comfort.
- Regular physical therapy and exercise are recommended to get the most out of Synvisc treatment.
- Patients should receive at most five injections of Synvisc within a year.
Side Effects Of Synvisc
Some common side effects are:
- Nausea
- Injection site pain
- Fever
- Swelling
- Redness
- Headache
- Itching
Rare side effects include:
- Allergic reactions
- Joint stiffness
- Joint warmth
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
Patients should be monitored for these side effects. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if any adverse effect appears or side effects worsen.
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Contraindications Of Synvisc
The following are the contraindications of Synvisc injection:
- Allergy to hyaluronan or any of its components
- Infection or skin disease in the injection site
- Severe joint deformity
- Acute gout or pseudogout
- Bleeding disorders
- Severe osteoarthritis
- Pregnancy or lactation
- Age under 21 or over 75
- Severe kidney failure
Any active systemic disease could be made worse by the injection of Synvisc. Patients’ full medical history should be collected and observed before Synvisc injection. Patients should also be routinely monitored for symptoms and side effects after each injection.
Strength
Synvisc is available in the following dosing strengths:
- 2 ml (16 mg) Synvisc
- 6 ml (48 mg) Synvisc One
Dosing
The dose for osteoarthritis is 2 ml intra-articularly once a week for 3 weeks.
Healthcare professionals will analyze the injection site and will use an 18- to 22-gauge needle to properly place the medicine where it needs to be for maximum effect. Injections are done by sterile syringes following proper skin cleaning and local anesthesia processes. One syringe should be used for one injection.
Cost of Synvisc
A Synvisc injection (2 ml/16 mg) can cost about $417. The price of a 6 ml/48 mg injection can go up to $2,000, depending on your insurance plan and the pharmacy you choose. If you are interested in financial assistance, please contact us.
FAQs
How does Synvisc work?
Synvisc works by providing lubrication and cushioning to the knee joint, reducing friction and helping to reduce pain.
Who should not use Synvisc?
Synvisc should not be used by patients who are allergic to hyaluronan or have an active infection on their skin or knee. It should also be avoided by patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What are the side effects of Synvisc?
Common side effects include joint pain, swelling, warmth, bruising, and redness.
Is Synvisc safe?
Yes, it has been approved by the FDA and is considered safe for use when injected as directed by the doctor.
How long does it take to work?
Results from Synvisc typically become noticeable within a few days of the injection, with maximum benefit occurring within 3 weeks. The effects of the drug may vary from patient to patient.
Does Synvisc require a prescription?
Yes, Synvisc is a prescription-only medication and must be obtained from a healthcare provider.
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Conclusion
Synvisc is a prescription-based viscosupplementation. This medicine is used for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). It is available as an injection and is administered directly into the knees.
The recommended dose is 2 ml per week for 3 weeks. The drug should not be given to people under 21 or over 75 years of age. Its common side effects include pain at the injection site, headache, fever, and nausea.
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Dr. Saba Rassouli, PharmD was born and raised in Iran. She received her pharmacy degree from Marshall B. Ketchum University in 2022, where she graduated cum laude. The most rewarding part of her job is having the opportunity to care for each patient as if they were family and hearing about how happy and satisfied they are with the services provided by AmeriPharma. In her free time, she likes to go on walks, read books, and try different restaurants and foods.