Hymovis vs Euflexxa – A Thorough Comparison

Last Updated On: October 21, 2024

According to the Arthritis Foundation, knee osteoarthritis (OA) often causes constant, aching pain that worsens with daily activities like walking or climbing stairs. This pain, along with swelling and stiffness, can severely impact mobility and quality of life.

For those seeking relief, Hymovis and Euflexxa are two prominent viscosupplementation treatments designed to ease knee OA pain. Both involve injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint, though they differ in formulation and application. Understanding these differences can help patients and healthcare providers choose the most suitable option.

In this article, we will explore the specifics of Hymovis vs Euflexxa, comparing their efficacy, application methods, and potential side effects to guide you in making an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• Hymovis and Euflexxa are viscosupplements used to treat knee osteoarthritis, offering pain relief and improved mobility.
• Hymovis requires only two injections, one week apart, while Euflexxa requires three weekly injections.
• Both treatments contain hyaluronic acid, but Euflexxa is non-animal-derived, making it a suitable option for those sensitive to animal products.
• Hymovis offers longer retention in the joint, potentially providing more extended relief, while Euflexxa has a longer history of use in clinical practice.
• Common side effects include mild pain, swelling, redness, and joint stiffness. While both treatments share similar side effects, Hymovis may cause slightly more joint stiffness due to its longer-lasting formulation.
• The choice between Hymovis and Euflexxa largely depends on the patient’s preference for the number of injections and the healthcare provider’s recommendations.

About: Operating since 2016, Med Supply Solutions is known for being one of the industry’s top and trusted suppliers of cosmetic and viscosupplementation products. If you’re looking to buy Hymovis online, contact our sales department for more information.

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Understanding Osteoarthritis and Viscosupplements

Osteoarthritis wears down joint cartilage, leading to pain and limited mobility, especially in the knees. As a non-surgical treatment option, viscosupplements provide relief by adding lubricating fluid to the joints, helping alleviate discomfort. These treatments improve joint function by providing additional cushioning, making movement more manageable and less painful.

Viscosupplementation typically involves a series of injections; for instance, some require two shots while others need three over several weeks. Patients’ positive experiences highlight the effectiveness of viscosupplements in managing knee osteoarthritis, often with minimal side effects. Finding effective treatments is essential for improving quality of life.

Hymovis

Hymovis is a treatment that provides safe and effective relief from osteoarthritis pain. Its specialized formulation of hyaluronic acid (HA) is designed to last longer in the knee joint, offering extended retention for better results. This longer-lasting effect and the Hymovis FDA approval make it a valuable option for those experiencing knee pain due to osteoarthritis.

Administering Hymovis involves a specific protocol to ensure optimal outcomes:

• Patients receive two Hymovis injections, administered one week apart.
• The doctor uses sterile techniques to prepare the area, sometimes removing excess joint fluid before the injection.
• The injection process is quick, but patients should avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours post-treatment.

Euflexxa

Euflexxa contains sodium hyaluronate as its active ingredient. Sodium hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in the synovial fluid of joints and acts as a lubricant and shock absorber.

Euflexxa is administered as an intra-articular injection directly into the knee joint. The typical protocol involves three injections given weekly over three weeks. Each injection consists of 2 mL of the solution. This method aims to reduce pain and improve knee function in people suffering from osteoarthritis.

Many patients report significant improvements in mobility and a reduction in discomfort after completing the Euflexxa treatment series. The precise administration protocol is critical for achieving these desired outcomes.

Comparing Patient Experiences and Reviews

Both treatments show promise in managing knee osteoarthritis. Hymovis edge out in patient convenience with fewer injections, which could also lead to greater cost-effectiveness. Euflexxa, on the other hand, benefits from a more extensive history of use and may appeal to those seeking an animal-free option. 

On Hymovis

• Count:”Hymovis works great! No pain, soreness or side effects. My left knee used to bother me most of the time but after I had the two shots all pain/soreness was gone. The injections were effective for a full year. I am now going to get a second round. Highly recommended!”
• bizzy:”I love it! I was getting another injection every six months. Hymovis has been working very well for me. Now I get Hymovis every 12 months.”

On Euflexxa

• At Ease:”2 months after the full course, 3 injections, my pain is much less. Corticosteroids did not do much. Euflexxa did.”
• Sandi:”Started Euflexxa over 5 years ago for bone-on-bone in both knees. I have a series of three weekly injections twice a year. I walk every day and do Zumba twice a week. I have absolutely no pain with the injections (my doctor knows what he is doing) and have been relatively pain-free. I am a 73-year-old female.”

Since there is no significant difference in side effects, the choice may be based on personal preference or specific medical advice.

Understanding Potential Side Effects

While Hymovis and Euflexxa are effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis, understanding their potential side effects is essential for patients seeking relief. Awareness can help manage expectations and enhance treatment safety. Commonly reported reactions include:

• Mild pain at the injection site
• Swelling and redness around the area
• Joint stiffness
• Allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid

Though both treatments share similar side effects, some studies suggest that Hymovis, with its longer-lasting formulation, may cause slightly more joint stiffness in the days following treatment than Euflexxa. On the other hand, Euflexxa, being non-animal-derived, may have a lower risk of allergic reactions in patients sensitive to animal-based products.

Conclusion

Hymovis and Euflexxa are both effective options for relieving knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, with Hymovis requiring two injections and Euflexxa needing three. While both treatments offer similar benefits and side effects, patient experiences are generally positive.

The choice between them often comes down to personal preference regarding the number of injections and your doctor’s tailored recommendation based on your specific needs.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between Hymovis and Euflexxa?

Hymovis requires two injections and contains a longer-lasting formulation of hyaluronic acid, while Euflexxa is non-animal-derived and requires three injections. 

2. How long do the effects of Hymovis and Euflexxa last?

The effects of both treatments typically last between six to twelve months, depending on the patient’s condition and how their body responds to the treatment.

3. Can I resume normal activities after receiving Hymovis or Euflexxa injections?

It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, such as jogging or tennis, for at least 48 hours after receiving either Hymovis or Euflexxa injections to allow the treatment to settle in the joint and minimize discomfort.

References

Regino J, Rose Sanchez Versales C, Kaye J, et al. Clinical audit on outcome measures used in examination of knee osteoarthritis in selected hospitals and clinics in the Philippines. 4. doi:https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0401.006) 

Geng R, Li J, Chen Y, et al. Knee osteoarthritis: Current status and research progress in treatment (Review). Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine. 2023;26(4). doi:https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2023.12180