ORTHOVISC®

ORTHOVISC is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive treatment prescribed by healthcare professionals for adult individuals suffering from knee osteoporosis.

What is ORTHOVISC?

ORTHOVISC is an ultra-pure, high molecular weight injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) viscosupplement designed to alleviate joint pain associated with osteoarthritis. Composed of highly purified sodium hyaluronate dissolved in physiological saline, this medication is both biocompatible and resorbable.

Administered through intra-articular injections, ORTHOVISC treatment aims to restore the viscoelastic properties of synovial fluid, reducing pain and enhancing joint mobility.

ORTHOVISC Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of ORTHOVISC involves supplementing the diminished hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid of osteoarthritic joints. By injecting high molecular weight hyaluronan directly into the joint, ORTHOVISC treatmentprovides lubrication and mechanical support, which helps to cushion and protect the joint surfaces.

This supplementation not only alleviates pain but also improves joint function, potentially delaying the need for more invasive interventions. Clinical studies have demonstrated that a series of three to four weekly injections can offer pain relief lasting up to six months.

Individuals should always consult their trusted medical professionals before they start any treatment. This evaluation can help in determining the suitability of patients and discuss the indications and contraindications of ORTHOVISC medications.

ORTHOVISC Indications

ORTHOVISC is a high molecular weight hyaluronic acid injectable medication specifically approved for the treatment of pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. It is indicated for patients who have not achieved adequate relief through conservative, non-pharmacologic methods—such as physical therapy and weight management—or first-line treatments like acetaminophen. In such cases, ORTHOVISC treatment serves as a viable alternative for joint pain management, aiming to restore mobility and improve overall quality of life.

The Medication’s Contraindications

ORTHOVISC is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to hyaluronan-based drugs or any of the components in the formulation. A doctor should avoid administering the injection in patients with infections or skin diseases at the intended injection site, as doing so may increase the risk of joint infection or other complications.

Additionally, ORTHOVISC treatment should not be used in cases where the joint is acutely inflamed due to infection or significant trauma. The healthcare provider must ensure that strict aseptic technique is used during administration, as contamination can lead to serious adverse outcomes. The product is supplied in single-use syringes and must be discarded immediately after use—reusing or resterilizing the syringe is strictly prohibited. Prior to initiating treatment with ORTHOVISC, the doctor must carefully assess the patient’s condition and history to determine the appropriateness of the drug, ensuring safe and effective therapy.

ORTHOVISC is supplied as a sterile, prefilled solution in a single-use 3 mL syringe, specifically designed for ease of use and safe administration. The syringe is clearly labeled “ORTHOVISC” for accurate and immediate identification by the healthcare provider or administering doctor. To maintain product integrity, each syringe is individually sealed in a sterile pouch and enclosed in a protective carton.

ORTHOVISC Supplies’ Packaging

As part of the packaging, a rubber cap is securely placed on the syringe tip to prevent leakage and to preserve the sterility of the drug until it is ready for use. Importantly, all components of the ORTHOVISC syringe are latex-free, making it suitable for patients with latex sensitivities. This meticulous packaging supports the aseptic technique required for safe ORTHOVISC treatment, ensuring the joint injection is performed under optimal sterile conditions.

Proper handling of the syringe is essential in every treatment with ORTHOVISC, and it should only be administered by a licensed doctor or qualified healthcare provider trained in intra-articular injections.

ORTHOVISC is an orthopedic injectable designed for intra-articular administration to alleviate knee osteoarthritis symptoms. The standard ORTHOVISC treatment protocol involves a series of three to four injections, each spaced one week apart, directly into the affected joint. This regimen aims to restore the lubricating properties of synovial fluid, thereby reducing pain and improving joint function.

Administration of ORTHOVISC Knee Pain Medication

Healthcare providers must employ standard intra-articular injection site preparation and adhere to strict aseptic techniques during the administration of this pharmaceutical drug. It is crucial to avoid using disinfectants containing quaternary ammonium salts for skin preparation, as hyaluronic acid can precipitate in their presence, potentially compromising the efficacy of the treatment with ORTHOVISC.

ORTHOVISC is intended only for use in the knee joint, as the safety and efficacy of the product in other joints have not been established. By supplementing the naturally occurring hyaluronan in the synovial fluid, ORTHOVISC treatment provides mechanical cushioning and lubrication within the joint, making it a critical component of osteoarthritis management when initial therapies fall short.

Step-by-Step Guide on How To Inject ORTHOVISC

1. After removal of the protective rubber cap on the tip of the syringe, securely attach a small gauge needle (18-21 gauge) to the tip.
2. Inject ORTHOVISC® into the knee joint using proper injection technique.
3. Inject the full contents of the syringe into one knee only.
4. If treatment is bilateral, a separate syringe should be used for each knee.
5. If symptoms return, repeat courses of ORTHOVISC® may be administered.

Post-Treatment Care

After receiving an ORTHOVISC injection for osteoarthritis, patients may experience transient pain or swelling at the injection site. To optimize the benefits of the ORTHOVISC treatment, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities or prolonged weight-bearing exercises, such as running or tennis, for at least 48 hours post-injection.

This precaution helps ensure the drug functions effectively within the joint. For further guidance on post-treatment care, consult your pharmasupplies or healthcare provider.​