Monovisc

(Sodium Hyaluronate)

The active ingredient in Monovisc is a viscoelastic supplement or a replacement for synovial fluid. It contains an ultra-pure, non-avian hyaluronic acid (HA), which occurs naturally in your body's connective tissues. When Monovisc is injected into the knee, it lubricates the joint, allowing you to move it effortlessly and providing long-lasting relief from knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Monovisc. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Monovisc:

• Monovisc is an intra-articular injection of lightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid given directly into the knee joint. It will be administered to you by a healthcare provider.
• You may receive more than one Monovisc injection. If so, subsequent injections are typically administered at least one week after your initial treatment.

The most common side effects of Monovisc seen in clinical trials include:

• Joint pain.
• Injection site irritation or pain.
• Joint swelling.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Monovisc. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as hives, swelling, or a skin rash.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Monovisc. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Monovisc, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• An allergy to gram-positive bacteria proteins (see your doctor if you're unsure).
• Allergy to sodium hyaluronate or similar products
• A bleeding or clotting problem, such as hemophilia.
• An infection in your knee or the skin around it.

• Current infection or skin issues in the area of injection.
• Known allergy to hyaluronate products.
• Known hypersensitivity to gram-positive bacterial proteins.
• Bleeding problems.

You may notice pain reduction in your osteoarthritis knee pain within one week of receiving Monovisc. However, studies reveal that it can take several weeks to experience the full pain-relieving effects.

When Monovisc is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Each Monovisc injection includes 88 milligrams of hyaluronan.

Adults 21 and older: A healthcare expert will typically provide one injection into the knee joint.

Store in a cool place, and keep out of reach of children.

Anika Therapeutics is the company that manufactures Monovisc.

There are no lower-cost generic name versions available of this medication.

There is no precise strategy to discontinue these injections. You may experience soreness at the injection site for 2 to 4 days following your dose. To relieve pain for the first 24 hours, apply ice (wrapped in a cloth) to the location for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. You can apply heat after 24 hours if necessary. Keep taking your pain medicine as prescribed.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.