Synvisc (hylan G-F 20) is similar to the fluid that surrounds the joints in your body. This fluid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joints.
Synvisc is used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Synvisc is usually given after other arthritis medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.
Synvisc may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not receive Synvisc if you are allergic to hylan G-F 20, or if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.
Before you receive a Synvisc injection, tell your doctor if you have blood clots or circulation problems in your legs, or an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products.
For at least 48 hours after your injection, avoid jogging, strenuous activity, high-impact sports, or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time.
Call your doctor at once if you have severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection.
Before receiving Synvisc
You should not receive Synvisc if you are allergic to hylan G-F 20, or if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.
To make sure you can safely receive Synvisc, tell your doctor if you have:
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blood clots or circulation problems in your legs; or
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an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products.
It is not known whether Synvisc will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using Synvisc. It is not known whether hylan G-F 20 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Synvisc is generally not used in anyone younger than 21 years old.
How is Synvisc given?
Synvisc is injected directly into your knee joint. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Synvisc is usually given once every week for 3 weeks. Follow your doctor"s dosing instructions very carefully.
To prevent pain and swelling, your doctor may recommend resting your knee or applying ice for a short time after your injection.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Synvisc injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Since Synvisc is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid?
For at least 48 hours after your injection, avoid jogging, strenuous activity, or high-impact sports such as soccer or tennis. Also avoid weight-bearing activity or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time. Ask your doctor how long to wait before you resume these activities.
Synvisc side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Synvisc: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection.
Less serious Synvisc side effects may include:
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warmth, pain, stiffness, swelling, or puffiness where the medicine was injected;
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muscle pain, trouble walking;
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fever, chills, nausea;
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numbness or tingly feeling;
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headache, dizziness;
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tired feeling; or
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itching or skin irritation around the knee.
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 Synvisc?
There may be other drugs that can interact with Synvisc. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
