Orthovisc (hyaluronan) is similar to the fluid that surrounds the joints in your body. This fluid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joints.
Orthovisc is used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Orthovisc is usually given after other arthritis medications have been tried without success.
Important information
You should not receive Orthovisc if you have a bleeding disorder, or if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.
Do not use Orthovisc with certain type of skin disinfectants used for skin preparation as hyaluronic acid can precipitate in their presence.
Before using this medicine
You should not use Orthovisc if you are allergic to hyaluronan, or if you have:
It is not known whether Orthovisc will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
It is not known whether hyaluronan passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How is Orthovisc given?
Orthovisc is injected directly into your knee joint. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Orthovisc is usually given once every week for 3 to 4 weeks.
Follow your doctor"s dosing instructions very carefully.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Orthovisc injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid while receiving Orthovisc?
For at least 48 hours after your injection: Avoid jogging, strenuous activity, or high-impact sports such as tennis. Also avoid weight-bearing activity or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time.
Orthovisc side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Orthovisc: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
Common Orthovisc side effects may include:
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joint pain or swelling; or
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swelling, pain, or mild discomfort where the medicine was injected.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Orthovisc?
Other drugs may interact with hyaluronan, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
