Euflexxa Side Effects List – Long and Short-Term

Last Updated On: September 10, 2024

Did you know that knee gel injections, also known as viscosupplementation, relieve osteoarthritis by replacing the lost synovial fluid in the knee joint? Osteoarthritis reduces this natural lubricant, causing joint pain during movement. While these injections can be effective, they also come with potential side effects.

Euflexxa is a highly purified form of hyaluronic acid (HA), closely resembling the healthy HA found in your knee. When other arthritis medications fail, Euflexxa can enhance shock absorption and reduce inflammation. However, like other viscosupplements, Euflexxa can have side effects, which must be considered when evaluating treatment options.

In this article, we will explore Euflexxa’s short-term and long-term safety profile, shedding light on its benefits and potential risks.

Key Takeaways

• Euflexxa, a hyaluronic acid-based viscosupplement, is used to treat osteoarthritis.
• Short-term side effects of Euflexxa include localized pain, swelling, and bruising at the injection site.
• Long-term side effects may include infection, allergic reactions, and joint stiffness or pain.
• Proper injection techniques and patient screening are crucial for minimizing side effects.
• Clinical data and patient case studies provide valuable insights into managing Euflexxa side effects.

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Short-Term Side Effects of Euflexxa

After getting a Euflexxa shot, some people feel pain right where they got the injection. They might also see swelling, get bruises, or notice red spots near the area.

• Localized Pain at the Injection Site: Localized pain is a common side effect of Euflexxa injections. Patients often report discomfort or soreness at the injection site, which usually resolves on its own within a few days. Ice packs or over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this pain. Proper injection techniques can minimize this side effect and enhance patient comfort.
• Swelling and Tenderness: Some patients experience swelling and tenderness at the injection site post-Euflexxa. This reaction indicates the body is adjusting to the new substance. These side effects typically subside within a few days. Applying ice and gentle movement can reduce swelling. Monitoring changes and informing healthcare professionals is crucial for effective management.
• Bruising and Redness: Bruising and redness commonly occur after Euflexxa injections due to minor blood vessel injury. These effects usually resolve within a few days. Applying cold compresses and resting can alleviate symptoms. Comparing Euflexxa with other treatments like Monovisc or Hyalgan helps determine the best option, which should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Long-Term Side Effects of Euflexxa

Using Euflexxa for a while can bring some long-term side effects. These include infection at the shot spot, bad reactions, and joint problems.

• Infection at the Injection Site: Symptoms include warmth, redness, pain, fever, or pus. To reduce this risk, healthcare professionals use sterile techniques and closely monitor patients post-injection. Comparing Euflexxa with treatments like Monovisc or Supartz involves considering such side effects. Proper patient education and follow-up are crucial for safety.
• Allergic Reactions: Patients who have just received a Euflexxa injection may experience allergic reactions, including rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing. Doctors should screen for allergies before administering Euflexxa to minimize risks. Knowing the patient’s medical history is essential for preventing such reactions. Proper screening reduces the likelihood of allergic responses, ensuring safer treatment outcomes.
• Joint Stiffness or Pain: This can occur after Euflexxa injections and affect daily activities. Although Euflexxa treats knee osteoarthritis pain, it may sometimes cause joint discomfort. Physicians assess patients’ osteoarthritis history and response to treatments like Hyalgan before prescribing Euflexxa. Proper dosing and careful monitoring help mitigate these side effects, enhancing long-term pain relief.

Managing and Minimizing Euflexxa Side Effects

Proper injection techniques are crucial for minimizing side effects and ensuring the effectiveness of Euflexxa. Medical professionals must follow these guidelines closely to achieve the best patient outcomes.

• Check the Euflexxa generic name on the package to ensure it’s the correct medication.
• Gather all necessary supplies before beginning, including syringes, gloves, and antiseptic wipes.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
• Use a new pair of sterile gloves for each procedure to maintain cleanliness.
• Clean the injection site with an antiseptic wipe in a circular motion, moving outward.
• Allow the skin to dry naturally after cleaning it; do not blow on it or wipe it dry.
• Carefully remove Euflexxa from its packaging to avoid contamination.
• Inspect the Euflexxa syringe for any particles or discoloration before use.
• Hold the syringe like a pencil for precise control during injection.
• Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle to ensure proper penetration depth into the joint space.
• Inject Euflexxa slowly to reduce discomfort and avoid putting too much pressure on the joint.
• After injecting, dispose of needles and syringes properly in a sharps container.

Patient Screening and Assessment

Doctors must carefully screen patients before administering Euflexxa, checking for allergies and health issues that could worsen side effects. Knowing a patient’s medical history helps predict reactions. For example, previous bad reactions to treatments like Hyalgan signal possible risks with Euflexxa. Close monitoring after injection ensures early detection and swift action if infections or severe pain arise.

Clinical Data and Patient Case Studies

Clinical data illustrates that when comparing viscosupplementation like Euflexxa vs. Synvisc, the former regularly demonstrates improved results in alleviating joint discomfort. Research shows that patients who received Euflexxa shared fewer unwanted effects and better mobility.

• Jim C.: The Euflexxa injections are a little thicker and take slightly longer to inject, but they are not painful. There is a feeling of additional pressure in the joint, but it does not hurt. It does provide additional pain relief for months, and I recommend it.
• Kk: I am rethinking my May knee replacement now. I have tried Durolane and one other viscosupplementation injection and they were awful. The Durolane was super painful for days and only lasted a short time. There was never complete relief. After one of three Euflexxa, I am essentially pain free. I have pushed myself to a higher level of physical activity and still good. I can’t wait to see how well I do with three injections.
• TennisFunGuy: I’ve gotten three series of bilateral Euflexxa injections over the past six years. The first time it lasted 15 months, the second time 19 months, and the third time 23 months. No problem getting the injections, resting for 48 hours afterward, and then back to tennis. The doctor giving the injections makes a difference. I’m a male in my 70s and highly recommend getting the injections. Hope it works for you.

Beyond being a source for prescribing knowledge, these instances aid healthcare professionals in forming insightful choices that improve patient care.

Conclusion

Euflexxa may cause short-term side effects like pain, swelling, bruising, and redness at the injection site. Long-term issues could include infection, allergic reactions, or joint stiffness. To manage these, doctors use precise injection techniques and patient history. By analyzing data from other patients, they ensure the safe and effective use of Euflexxa, providing optimal care.

FAQs

1. What is Euflexxa, and what does its prescribing information say about its side effects? 

Euflexxa treats knee pain in osteoarthritis patients. The prescribing information outlines both short-term and long-term potential side effects.

2. Can you give me an idea of the short-term side effects of Euflexxa? 

Short-term side effects may include temporary discomfort at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, or bruising.

3. Are there any long-term side effects associated with using Euflexxa? 

Yes, long-term side effects, though less common, can occur. These may include severe headaches or allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention.

4. How does Euflexxa compare to Hyalgan in terms of side effects? 

Due to their being in the same drug class, both medications have similar potential side effects. Individual responses vary, so patients should discuss their health history and concerns with their doctor.

References

Knee gel injections (Viscosupplementation). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/knee-gel-injections-viscosupplementation

About EUFLEXXA – Euflexxa. www.euflexxa.com. Accessed July 23, 2024. https://www.euflexxa.com/about-euflexxa/