Orthovisc Side Effects – A Complete List

Last Updated On: September 13, 2024

In 2019, approximately 528 million people worldwide were affected by osteoarthritis, a chronic joint condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. This disease significantly impacts the quality of life, especially among older adults, and its prevalence is expected to rise as populations continue to age.

Understanding available treatments like Orthovisc is crucial for managing osteoarthritis symptoms. While Orthovisc injections can provide relief from knee pain, they also come with potential side effects, ranging from mild discomfort at the injection site to more serious complications such as increased knee pain or infection.

This article will outline the complete list of Orthovisc side effects, offering detailed insights to help you make informed decisions about your osteoarthritis treatment options.

Key Takeaways

• Common side effects of Orthovisc include temporary pain, swelling, and discomfort at the injection site, which usually subsides within a few days.
• Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions, infection, or severe joint pain, and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
• Post-injection care may help minimize side effects, such as avoiding strenuous activities for 48 hours after treatment.
• Patients with specific allergies (e.g., to avian products) should be cautious, as Orthovisc is derived from purified hyaluronan, which may trigger allergic reactions.
• Consultation with a doctor is essential to assess individual risk factors and determine whether Orthovisc is the right treatment for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

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 Orthovisc online, contact our sales department for more information.

Common Side Effects of Orthovisc Injections

Orthovisc injections often lead to some common side effects. People might feel pain or swell at the spot where they got the shot.

• Local Reactions at the Injection Site: Common reactions to an Orthovisc injection include pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or bruising at the injection site. 
• Pain and Swelling at the Injection Site: These are common effects of Orthovisc injection. Doctors recommend icing the area to alleviate these symptoms and advise monitoring them closely. If symptoms worsen or persist, consult your doctor.
• Systemic Responses: Systemic responses to Orthovisc can include headache, dizziness, and back pain. These effects demonstrate the body’s overall reaction, affecting the treated joint and other body parts.

Rare Side Effects of Orthovisc Injections

Rare side effects from Orthovisc can happen but don’t occur often. Some people may face serious allergies or intense joint pain after getting these injections.

• Allergic Reactions: Orthovisc can cause allergic reactions, including skin rash, itching, hives, facial swelling, or dizziness. These serious symptoms require immediate medical attention following an injection for any joint treatment.
• Orthovisc Injections and Allergies: While some discomfort with Orthovisc injections is common, monitoring for allergic reactions is crucial. Symptoms may indicate an allergy to the treatment.
• Severe Joint Pain: This is a rare side effect of Orthovisc. Patients may experience stiffness, swelling, and difficulty moving. If pain worsens, seek medical advice promptly for appropriate management.

Always tell your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms after an Orthovisc shot for the shoulder or other areas.

Managing and Mitigating Orthovisc Side Effects

Dealing with Orthovisc side effects can be simple. Knowing what to do and when to get help is key. Here are some tips to help manage and mitigate these effects:

• Rest and Ice: After receiving an Orthovisc injection, it’s important to rest the affected knee and apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain. This can help minimize discomfort and promote faster recovery.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities: For at least 48 hours post-injection, avoid activities that put excessive strain on your knee, such as running, jumping, or heavy lifting. Gentle movements and light walking are generally acceptable.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you experience mild pain or swelling, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be helpful. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your healthcare provider for any concerns.
• Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage and elevating your knee can also help reduce swelling and discomfort. Ensure the bandage is not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow.

Comparing treatments like Orthovisc vs. Euflexxa, following aftercare instructions closely is essential, as each viscosupplement may have specific recommendations tailored to its formulation for optimal recovery.

While mild side effects are common and usually resolve on their own, certain symptoms may require medical attention:

• Severe Pain or Swelling: If you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or redness around the injection site that does not improve with home care, contact your healthcare provider.
• Signs of Infection: Symptoms such as fever, chills, or drainage from the injection site could indicate an infection and should be addressed immediately.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Orthovisc. Symptoms like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing require prompt medical attention.

Safety Information Based on Clinical Studies and Patient Experiences

A randomized, multicenter trial assessed Orthovisc’s efficacy and safety in patients with mild to severe knee osteoarthritis (OA). The study confirmed Orthovisc’s effectiveness and safety across OA severities. Additionally, a BMJ meta-analysis showed that Orthovisc significantly relieves pain and improves function compared to saline placebo injections in knee OA patients.

Furthermore, a literature review summarized evidence on the safety and efficacy of various intraarticular hyaluronic acid preparations for knee OA. While some preparations showed consistent efficacy, the review noted that high-quality studies are required to assess and compare the safety and efficacy of different preparations, including Orthovisc. 

Conclusion

Orthovisc injections offer significant benefits for managing osteoarthritis pain but can also come with potential side effects. Common reactions include mild pain or swelling at the injection site, while more serious complications, such as severe joint pain or allergic reactions, are rare. Being aware of these side effects can help you take proactive steps to manage them effectively.

If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice promptly is important. Continuous safety studies and patient feedback play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective use of Orthovisc.

FAQs

1. What do reviews say about Orthovisc injections?

Reviews of Orthovisc injections typically address dosage, the number of injections required, and any side effects patients experience.

2. How does Orthovisc compare to Euflexxa?

Comparisons between Orthovisc and Euflexxa often focus on FDA approval, dosage, manufacturer differences, and patient feedback.

3. What is the typical dosage for Orthovisc?

Orthovisc dosage varies based on individual needs and healthcare provider recommendations. Consult your doctor for precise dosage information.

4. Who manufactures Orthovisc, and when was it FDA-approved?

Orthovisc is produced by a reputable pharmaceutical company and received FDA approval following rigorous testing for safety and efficacy.

References

WHO. Osteoarthritis. www.who.int. Published July 14, 2023. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/osteoarthritis 

The number of people with osteoarthritis worldwide is on the rise. News-Medical.net. Published May 12, 2020. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20200512/The-number-of-people-with-osteoarthritis-worldwide-is-on-the-rise.aspx