Orthovisc (Sodium Hyaluronate)

What is Orthovisc?

Orthovisc is a hyaluronic acid derivative. It is similar to a substance, called synovial fluid, which occurs naturally in the joints.

What is Orthovisc used for?

Orthovisc is indicated for the treatment of knee pain in people suffering from osteoarthritis and have not found relief from other treatments such as exercise, physical therapy, or acetaminophen.

How does Orthovisc work?

Orthovisc works as a lubricant and shock absorber in the joint. This way, it increases the efficacy of the fluid in the knee joint, and thus, helps the knee move smoothly, without pain.

How to use Orthovisc

Orthovisc comes in the form of an injection and must be administered by a qualified medical professional.

Orthovisc is injected mostly on a weekly basis or as prescribed by the physician. Do not clean the affected area by ammonium salts.

Remember to limit your movement after the intra-articular injection to let the medicine be absorbed by the muscles in the joint.

Orthovisc warnings and precautions

Do not use Orthovisc if you are allergic to egg products, birds or bird products and feathers. Also, it is advised not to use Orthovisc if the injected area develops a rash and swells.

If you have a medical history of knee joint infections, skin infections, or circulation problems then discuss with your doctor to alter the dosage. 

Inform your doctor about all the exercises and physiotherapy that you have undergone before taking this medication. Accordingly, your dosage will be altered.

Do not stress your joints too much while you are under this medication. Avoid all movements as far as possible. Do not stress your knees with activities like jogging, tennis and heavy lifting.

Pregnant and lactating women must seek prior advice from their doctor, before taking this medicine, as it might cause harm to an unborn or nursing baby.

What do I do if I have missed a Orthovisc dose?

If you have missed an Orthovisc dose consult your doctor immediately to start a new dosing schedule. Do not try to start it on your own as the doctor will first check your medical condition and then decide whether you need further treatment.

What do I do if I have taken a Orthovisc overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Orthovisc, contact your doctor right away.

Orthovisc interactions

When you are being prescribed with Orthovisc, be sure to inform the doctor about all the prescription and non prescription medicines that you are using or will continue to use throughout this treatment.

Do not start or stop using any medication on your own, while you are taking Orthovisc.

Orthovisc side effects

Some of the common side effects from Orthovisc include slight pain, warmth and mild swelling on the injection site. Consult the doctor if these persist and interfere with your daily schedule.

Any serious side effects of Orthovisc must be reported to the doctor and the dosage altered. These consist of nausea, hemorrhoids, calf cramps, ankle edema, muscle pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, sprain in the lower back and psuedosepsis.

Rare, but serious Orthovisc side effects like arthralgia, severe pain, respiratory trouble, severe allergic reaction like uncontrolled itching, rash, hives, swelling in the mouth, tongue, throat and the injected area, large effusions in the knee and synovial eosinophillia have to be treated immediately. They must be reported to the doctor within minutes of their occurring. Failing to do so can lead to some serious complications.