Orthovisc (Sodium Hyaluronan)

Indications

Orthovisc is a high molecular weight hyaluronic acid viscosupplement that is used to treat knee pain due to osteoarthritis. It is a sterile and non-pyrogenic solution of hyaluronan in a single-use syringe. Orthovisc provides more hyaluronic acid to the joint than most other available treatments. It is injected directly into the knee joint and works as a lubricant and shock absorber, reducing pain and inflammation.

Orthovisc is generally used in patients who have not responded to other arthritis medications. It is the only FDA-approved treatment made from ultra-pure hyaluronan, a naturally occurring lubricant found in joints.

Uses and Dosage

The medication Orthovisc (Sodium Hyaluronan) is administered by injection into the affected joint, usually once a week by a healthcare professional. Skin disinfectants that contain ammonium salts, such as benzalkonium chloride, should not be used to prepare the injection site. Before injecting the medicine, the doctor may need to remove extra fluid from the joint.

Dosage of Orthovisc is based on individual medical condition and response to treatment. Increased side effects may occur if hyaluronate is injected into a vein or artery, so this should be avoided. After receiving an Orthovisc injection, patients should avoid activities that put stress on the knee joint, such as jogging, tennis, heavy lifting, or standing on the feet for more than an hour, for 48 hours.

To use the Orthovisc syringe, follow these steps:

1. Clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution.
2. Open the Orthovisc packaging and remove the syringe.
3. Attach the appropriate needle to the syringe.
4. Remove the needle cap and expel any air from the syringe.
5. Inject the Orthovisc into the knee joint according to your healthcare provider's instructions.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Orthovisc (Sodium Hyaluronan):

• Back pain
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Itching
• Joint pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Stiffness
• Swelling, pain, redness, or mild discomfort where the medicine was injected

Serious Side Effects of Orthovisc (Sodium Hyaluronan):

• Bleeding
• Difficulty breathing
• Hives
• Increased knee pain
• Signs of infection (warmth, swelling, redness) around the knee
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Form and Strength

Orthovisc (Sodium Hyaluronan) is available in the following forms and strength:

Orthovisc: Syringe

• 15mg/mL

Caution

• Do not use Orthovisc if you are allergic to hyaluronan, sodium hyaluronate, or any other ingredients in the product.
• Do not use Orthovisc if you have a knee joint infection or skin disease in the area where the injection will be given.
• Exercise caution when using Orthovisc if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners, as it may increase your risk of bleeding.
• Use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after an Orthovisc injection, as it may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Orthovisc during these times has not been established.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking, as some drugs may interact with Orthovisc.
• Orthovisc should only be administered by trained healthcare professionals who are experienced in intra-articular injections.
• Orthovisc may increase the risk of infection in the knee joint, so precautions should be taken to minimize this risk.
• Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to Orthovisc that can be serious, including anaphylaxis.
• If you have knee replacement surgery within 6 months of Orthovisc injection, inform your surgeon that you received Orthovisc injection.
• Patients with a history of thromboembolic events should use caution when receiving Orthovisc injections.
• Some patients may experience pain or swelling at the injection site, which should be reported to their healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is Orthovisc different from other hyaluronic acid viscosupplements?

Orthovisc is different from other hyaluronic acid viscosupplements because it is made from ultra-pure hyaluronan and provides more hyaluronic acid to the joint.

How long does Orthovisc treatment last?

Orthovisc treatment usually involves three to four weekly injections, and the effects can last for up to six months.

Who can receive Orthovisc treatment?

Orthovisc treatment is generally intended for patients who have not responded to other arthritis medications and have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Is there anything patients should avoid after an Orthovisc injection?

Patients should avoid any strenuous activity or exercise that puts a lot of pressure on the knee joint for at least 48 hours after an Orthovisc injection.

Can Orthovisc be used in other joints besides the knee?

Orthovisc is currently only approved for use in the knee joint.

Resources

• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf3/p030019d.pdf
• https://www.jnjmedtech.com/en-US/product/orthovisc-high-molecular-weight-hyaluronan
• https://anika.com/medical/products/orthovisc/
• https://www.drugs.com/orthovisc.html
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-81236/orthovisc-intra-articular/details
• https://www.rxlist.com/orthovisc-drug.htm