General Information on Monovisc
Monovisc is a medication indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis. The generic name for this drug is sodium hyaluronate.
Monovisc is a non-pyrogenic and sterile sodium hyaluronate solution that has been chemically cross linked in order to treat the signs and symptoms of osteoporosis. It is produced from high molecular weight and pure sodium hyaluronate derived from bacterial fermentation. This drug works by providing the joints with the mechanical support and lubrication that is lost as a result of osteoporosis. It is suitable for treating the symptoms of some other joint dysfunctions as well.
You may buy Monovisc as a replacement for vital synovial fluid in the joints of the human body, or a viscoelastic supplement. The elasticity and viscosity of synovial fluid in the joints reduces as a result of osteoporosis. This reduces the ability of the fluid to absorb shocks and lubricate the joint.
Side effects of Monovisc
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally produced substance and is found in the body tissues. Monovisc has been tested thoroughly to ensure that high quality standards are maintained. Sodium hyaluronate is an anti-inflammatory substance, and hence the risk of an inflammations occurring as side effects to this substance are non-existent.
On the other hand, an adverse reaction may occur as a result of the injection. There may be a mild to moderate swelling or discomfort in the area where Monovisc was injected. These mild side effects are transient and disappear on their own. Nevertheless, you must inform your doctor if you notice these side effects turning worse or continuing for an unusually long time. Other mild side effects that may result due to injection of Monovisc include the following:
- Stiffness, warmth, puffiness or pain in the area where Monovisc was injected
- Stomach pain or nausea
- Numbness or tingling
- Back pain
- Headache
- Tiredness, fatigue
- Itching or irritation in the skin around knees
- Heavy feeling
- Cold symptoms, like sore throat, sneezing and stuffy nose
In rare case, there may be bleeding or skin infections around the area where Monovisc was injected. Once again, this occurs mainly due to the procedure of injecting medications directly into the joints. If you notice these symptoms, you must inform your doctor as soon as possible.
Dosage of Monovisc
You may buy Monovisc as a sterile and viscoelastic preparation stored in a disposable, sterile glass syringe. Each syringe holds 0.4mL of the medication, which is dissolved in a phosphate buffered saline.
Monovisc is injected into the joints through a disposable, sterile hypodermic needle. You may not be able to take this medication if you suffer from any blood circulation problems or blood clot problems in your legs. The injection itself will be administered by an appropriate healthcare professional.
Before you take Monovisc, you must talk to your doctor about its safety for your particular condition. Do not apply the medication by yourself. You must also inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking before Monovisc is injected.
