Indications 

Orthovisc is a prescribed medication for knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and is typically administered to those who have not responded to other treatments like acetaminophen, exercise, or physical therapy. 

Orthovisc is a sterile, thick mixture derived from purified hyaluronan found in rooster combs. It mimics the natural substance present in joints and potentially functions as a lubricant and shock absorber, facilitating smoother knee movement and reducing discomfort. 

Uses and Dosage 

Orthovisc is a sterile solution provided in a single-use syringe. Typically, healthcare providers administer it directly into the knee joint at one-week intervals for three or four injections. 

Orthovisc dosage will be determined by the patient’s medical status and treatment outcomes. Prior to administering this medication, your physician may need to extract excess joint fluid.  

Ensure adherence to standard intraarticular injection site preparation, employing an aseptic technique and necessary precautions.  

Avoid simultaneous use of disinfectants containing quaternary ammonium salts for skin preparation, as their presence can cause precipitation of sodium hyaluronan. 

Carefully follow your doctor’s instructions and adhere to the prescribed injection schedule for this medication. 

Following the administration of Orthovisc, refrain from engaging in activities that strain the knee (e.g., running, tennis, lifting heavy objects, standing for over an hour) for 48 hours. 

Inform your physician of any lack of improvement or deterioration of your symptoms. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Orthovisc. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your doctor immediately. 

Common Side Effects 

• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling 
• Itching, numbness, or tingling 
• Headache and dizziness 
• Back pain 
• Swelling, pain, redness, or mild discomfort at the injection site 

Serious Side Effects 

• Bleeding 
• Increased knee pain 
• Signs of infection (warmth, swelling, redness) around the knee 

Contact your doctor right away if any of the severe side effects mentioned above are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Orthovisc may occur. Seek immediate medical help if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Hives 
• Swelling (face, lips, tongue, or throat) 
• Breathing difficulty 

Not all side effects of Orthovisc are included in this list. Tell your doctor right away if any unlisted effects are observed. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Orthovisc, inform your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to: 

• Sodium hyaluronan 
• Bird proteins, feathers, or egg products 
• Other drugs  
• Any of the components of Orthovisc solution. 

To ensure Orthovisc is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Knee joint infections 
• Skin infections/problems in the area surrounding the injection site 
• Circulation problems in the legs 

Inform all healthcare providers about any current or newly initiated or discontinued medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Orthovisc. 

The potential harm of Orthovisc on a fetus is unknown. Notify your physician if you are pregnant or intend to conceive while using this medication. 

The potential transfer of hyaluronan into breast milk and its impact on nursing infants is uncertain. Inform your physician if you are currently breastfeeding.