Osteoarthritis is a condition that generates a lot of pain, due to inflammatory processes in the joints. This is caused by the destruction of cartilage, which creates limitations for people, significantly reducing their quality of life.
There are several forms of treatment for osteoarthritis, such as the use of medications and injectable therapies, which can relieve pain and reduce the inflammatory processes of the disease.
Among the options is Synvisc-one, a substance applied by injection, directly to the affected joint, which can reduce and control the condition for prolonged periods, up to 12 months.
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What is Synvisc?
Synvisc and Synvisc-one are a substance applied to the knee joint affected by osteoarthritis, to temporarily restore lubrication and relieve pain. They are an external supplement of synovial fluid for intra-articular use.
The active ingredient in the medication is Hilano GF 20, which is derived from hyaluronate (which is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid).
The application, called viscosupplementation, is carried out by means of injections directly into the joint.
Treatment is temporary, but considerably long-lasting, promoting joint restoration for periods that can last from 6 months to up to 1 year. This is because the substance is very similar to the composition of the joint, helping to lubricate the site and absorb impacts.
Remember that Synvisc and Synvisc-one are the same substance and have, in general, the same purpose. The difference is in the technology used, it allows Synvisc-one to only need 1 application, while Synvisc needs 3.
In addition, the Synvisc package insert indicates that the drug can be prescribed for the treatment of hip osteoarthritis.
What is it for?
Synvisc and Synvisc-one is indicated for the treatment of pain and discomfort related to osteoarthritis in the knee. This is because the disease causes the wear and tear of cartilage, which affects the absorption of the impact, impairing proper movement.
The application aims to temporarily recover the articular functionality performed by the synovial fluid. That is, lubrication. Thus, Synvisc forms a viscous and elastic layer, similar to natural cartilage, which reduces friction, cushions and protects articular tissues.
Bearing in mind that osteoarthritis is a very common condition, characterized by the loss of irregularly shaped articular cartilage, usually in areas of overload, such as the knees and hips.
As a result, symptoms arise, such as pain, stiffness and functional limitation, which have a major impact on life and the performance of common activities, such as walking and climbing stairs.
What is the difference between Synvisc-One and Synvisc?
Synvisc-one and Synvisc have the same technology, being substances based on Hilano GF-20, similar to the synovial fluid present in the joints. The difference is that Synvisc needs 3 applications to complete the treatment. The Synvisc-one version is made in a single injection.
Viscosupplementation can be performed on both knees together, if necessary, and be repeated again after the treatment effects are over. That is, after about 12 months, with an average rating, it is possible to repeat the application.
What is viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation (VS) is the application of exogenous hyaluronic acid in the joints affected by osteoarthritis. It promotes lubrication and pain reduction due to the regeneration of articular cartilage.
Although the vast majority of therapeutic indications are made for the knees, viscosupplementation can also be indicated when osteoarthritis affects places such as the hips, shoulders, ankles, elbows, hands and feet.
Although it is not a painful procedure, like other types of perforation or application, there may be local tenderness or pain. It only takes a few minutes, but people who are very sensitive to pain may consider using local anesthetics for the injection with the medical team.
Several international guidelines include viscosupplementation in the possibilities of treating osteoarthritis when primary resources have no effect. That is, when the use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, strengthening, food and weight reduction do not improve the person’s condition, application therapy is a possibility for the person affected by the disease.
Is Synvisc-one approved by Anvisa?
Yea! Synvisc and Synvisc-one are registered and approved by ANVISA, but it is important to know that they are categorized as medical accessories and not as medicines. At registration, approval counts for purposes of:
- Synovial fluid replenisher;
- Supplement for joints in osteoarthritis.
That is, for other uses, ANVISA does not recognize product safety.
Does Synvisc-one work?
Yes. But it is important to consider that the treatment of osteoarthritis is multimodal. This means that a series of measures must be adopted and maintained to reduce pain and recover joint function.
It is also important to follow medical guidelines, undergoing physiotherapy, dietary maintenance and other indications given by professionals.
In general, each person can respond differently to Synvisc-one therapy. That is, it is possible that pain relief will take longer or persist for less time. However, according to the manufacturer of the product, the effects relieve pain for up to 1 year, when properly applied.
How is the application?
The procedure is simple and does not involve major risks, as long as it is done by trained professionals. It may be necessary to remove excesses or remnants of joint fluid present in the knee. After the correct cleaning of the place, the application of Synvisc-one is made with an appropriate syringe, with 6mL.
Afterwards, the person must maintain some care, such as avoiding heavy or intense activities, preferably maintaining rest.
All guidelines are provided in the consultation and must be followed to avoid risks.
How long does it take to take effect?
Pain relief can vary with each person. Overall, it only takes a few days for there to be a perception of relief from symptoms and discomfort. It is worth remembering that the treatment is temporary, which means that, to maintain the effect, it is necessary to repeat the injection with a certain periodicity that will be analyzed by the doctor.
In general, the action lasts for 6 to 12 months, and it is possible to repeat the application after that time.
What are the possible side effects?
The application may generate some side effects, such as pain and mild inflammation at the site. These are common symptoms, but they tend not to compromise the patient’s well-being. In a short time, the picture shows improvement as well.
It is possible to have an allergic reaction in people sensitive to birds, feathers or eggs. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor of allergies.
Other less common symptoms may also occur, such as edema and swelling at the site, in addition to inflammations that need to be properly attended by responsible professionals. It is also possible for the patient to manifest rashes, itching, fever , hives, nausea, headache, dizziness, flushing and cramps.
Price and where to buy?
The Synvisc with a 2ml syringe with solution for application, costs about $ 390 * R. The Synvisc one , 1 syringe with 6 ml solution, costs about $ 1,321 * R. Both can be found in pharmacies, with a white prescription.
People with a medical prescription can count on the advice of quotation for high-cost medications , offered by the Consultations Remedies. In a simple and quick way, it is possible to have access to Synvisc’s budget, facilitating the legal process.
* Prices consulted in October 2019. Prices may change.
There are more and more therapeutic resources to relieve pain and improve conditions for people with osteoarthritis. The Synvisc and Synvisc one application is one of them.
To learn more about health and treatments, keep an eye on the Healthy Minute!
