Synvisc-One

If medications and other arthritis treatments aren't enough to relieve your arthritis pain, your doctor may recommend Synvisc-One. This product comes in the form of a gel-like liquid that is injected directly into the knee joint. The substances within this product work together to provide the cushioning and lubrication that the knee joint is unable to provide. Common side effects include knee pain and knee stiffness.

Synvisc-One Treatment Information

What Is Synvisc-One?

Synvisc-One^® (Hylan G-F 20) is an osteoarthritis treatment that is injected directly into the knee to cushion and lubricate the joint. Such treatments are known as viscosupplements. It is given as a single injection per knee and helps relieve pain for up to six months.

This medication is most appropriate for individuals who have not received adequate pain relief from other arthritis treatments (such as medications) but who are not yet good candidates for knee replacement surgery.

(Click Synvisc-One Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes It?

Synvisc-One is manufactured by Genzyme Biosurgery, a division of Genzyme Corporation.

How Does Synvisc-One Work?

Healthy joints contain synovial fluid.

This fluid works like a cushion and lubricant for the joint. In people with osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid may break down, becoming thinner and less able to protect the joint.

Synvisc-One contains a mixture of hylan A and hylan B, two substances made from sodium hyaluronate, a natural product obtained from chicken combs. Hyaluronate is also found in the human body, especially within the joints and the synovial fluid. Injecting Synvisc-One into the joint helps provide the cushioning and lubrication lacking in the arthritic joint.

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