Monovisc vs Orthovisc – Which is Better?

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent condition that affects millions globally, presenting a significant challenge in pain management and mobility. An evidence-based review highlights various nonsurgical treatments with proven efficacy, such as corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid injections, which are pivotal in managing knee OA symptoms.

Among the hyaluronic acid treatments, Monovisc and Orthovisc stand out as two popular options. Monovisc is a single-injection treatment, while Orthovisc requires three to four injections. Both aim to lubricate the knee joint and alleviate pain, but their effectiveness and patient suitability can vary.

In this article, we will explore the differences between these two treatments. We’ll discuss their mechanisms, benefits, potential side effects, and what current research suggests about their comparative effectiveness in managing knee OA.

Key Takeaways

• Monovisc is a one-shot treatment with high hyaluronic acid strength. It comes from bacteria and helps knee pain by copying the body’s natural joint fluid.
• Orthovisc needs 3 to 4 shots to work. It also fights knee pain, but it takes longer to do its job because you need more doctor visits.
• Both treatments have side effects like swelling or pain at the shot spot, but they are mostly safe. People who use them say their knees feel better afterward.
• Although the cost of Monovisc for one-shot might be high, it could save money over time compared to Orthovisc, which requires more shots.
• Choosing between Monovis and Orthovics depends on each person’s needs and preferences. Talking to a doctor can help you decide which is best for your knee pain.

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Introduction to Monovisc and Orthovisc

Monovisc is a unique, single-injection treatment for knee osteoarthritis. It’s packed with high-strength hyaluronic acid and designed to mimic the body’s synovial fluid, which lubricates and cushions the joint.

Orthovisc, on the other hand, offers relief through a series of three to four injections. It targets the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis in the knee by supplementing the joint’s natural fluids.

To manage pain associated with knee osteoarthritis, Monovisc and Orthovisc are injected directly into the knee. These injections aim to replace synovial fluid, which helps lubricate and cushion the joint, decreasing pain and increasing mobility.

Formulation and Mechanism of Action

Monovisc stands out due to its unique composition. This injectable treatment for knee osteoarthritis is high in hyaluronic acid strength, relieving joint pain and improving mobility. Its unique mixture comes from bacterial cells and undergoes a cross-linking process with a proprietary solution. 

It mimics the body’s synovial fluid, a natural substance that helps lubricate and cushion the knee joint. This treatment contains high levels of hyaluronic acid derived from bacterial cells.

Conversely, Orthovisc requires three to four sessions to complete treatment. It relieves joint pain by improving joint mobility. Unlike Monovisc’s single-shot approach derived from bacterial cells, Orthovisc uses a different formulation method, creating a course that spreads over several weeks.

Orthovisc mimics the body’s natural joint fluid. This fluid is vital in lubricating and cushioning the knee joint, which helps to reduce pain and improve joint movement. Orthovisc, made from hyaluronan derived from avian sources, integrates into the damaged knee tissue.

Clinical Efficacy

During clinical trials, doctors follow the proper Monovisc dosage to determine how it will help improve mobility in patients struggling with knee osteoarthritis. They discovered its efficacy in enhancing joint conditions with hyaluronic acid and its convenience since patients only need one shot. This process is also significant for patients because fewer shots can lead to less stress about treatment.

While Orthovisc stands out because it is given in 3-4 injections instead of just one, this method has shown promising results for the symptomatic treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Patients have seen improved mobility and pain reduction, which are crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle despite osteoarthritis.

Comparison of Clinical Efficacy between Monovisc and Orthovisc

Following an in-depth discussion of Orthovisc’s efficacy, we compare the clinical effectiveness of Monovisc and Orthovisc. Both treatments offer viscosupplementation for knee osteoarthritis but with distinct administration protocols and potential benefits.

Criteria	Monovisc	Orthovisc
Injection Frequency	Single injection	Three to four injections
Hyaluronic Acid Source	Bacterial cells cross-linked	Not specified
Average Rating on Drugs.com	5.9 out of 10	Not specified
Positive Experience Reported	50%	Not specified
Clinical Efficacy	Comparable dose effectiveness in a single injection	Indicated for symptomatic treatment of knee osteoarthritis
Administration Protocol	Derived from bacterial cells, cross-linked with a proprietary solution	Three to four injections, dosing regimen not detailed

Safety Profiles and Side Effects

Monovisc, made from bacterial cells and a particular cross-linked solution, is known for its safety. This injection treats knee osteoarthritis with only one dose, and most people do well with it.

As with many treatments for osteoarthritis, Monovisc has familiar side effects. Patients report pain, swelling, or fluid buildup at the injection site. Some also experience heat, redness, or stiffness in the knee.

Orthovisc is known for its exemplary safety profile. Most patients get three to four injections but report few problems. Common issues might include pain at the injection site, swelling, or heat in the knee.

More severe reactions, like skin rashes or itching around the knee area, can occur rarely. Medical professionals must monitor these responses closely. This vigilance helps ensure that adverse effects are managed swiftly and effectively, maintaining patient comfort and safety throughout their osteoarthritis treatment journey with Orthovisc.

Patient Outcomes

Patients who receive Monovisc treatments often see noticeable improvements. With a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, Monovisc requires only one injection, making it a convenient option for those suffering from knee osteoarthritis.

Monovisc stands out because it is derived from bacterial cells and uses a unique cross-linked solution to provide effective viscosupplementation. This single-shot approach can deliver relief comparable to that offered by multiple injections of other products, showcasing its efficacy in treating joint pain and improving mobility in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

People who get Orthovisc injections see good results for knee pain from osteoarthritis. Depending on the patient’s needs, Doctors give these shots three to four times. Many find that their joints move better and hurt less after these treatments.

Comparison of Patient Outcomes between Monovisc and Orthovisc

As we move from discussing patient outcomes with Orthovisc treatment to exploring how Monovisc compares. Here’s a detailed comparison of patient outcomes between Monovisc and Orthovisc, offering insight into their efficacy and patient satisfaction.

Criteria	Monovisc	Orthovisc
Average Rating on Drugs.com	5.9 out of 10	Not specified, but generally positive
Percentage of Positive Experience Reports	50%	Varies, generally high
Treatment Frequency	Single injection	Three to four injections
Source and Composition	Derived from bacterial cells, cross-linked with a proprietary solution	Not specified, focuses on hyaluronic acid
Clinical Efficacy	Comparable dose effectiveness to Orthovisc for knee osteoarthritis	Indicated for symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee
Practical Considerations	The convenience of a single injection may appeal to some patients	Requires more clinic visits, which might be inconvenient for some

Practical Considerations

Understanding the cost dynamics between Monovisc and Orthovisc plays a pivotal role in decision-making for healthcare professionals and patients. 

Treatment	Number of Injections Required	Cost Per Injection	Total Cost of Treatment
Monovisc	1	Varies by healthcare provider and insurance coverage	Generally higher upfront but lower overall due to single injection
Orthovisc	3-4	Varies by healthcare provider and insurance coverage	Lower per injection but potentially higher overall due to multiple injections

 

Administration Protocols for Monovisc and Orthovisc

• Frequency: Monovisc is typically administered as a single 4 mL injection directly into the knee joint. This one-time injection simplifies the treatment regimen, requiring only a single visit to the healthcare provider for administration. Meanwhile, Orthovisc is typically administered as a series of three or four 2 mL injections, given one week apart. It requires multiple visits to the healthcare provider over several weeks.
• Procedure: Both treatments follow a similar method that starts with cleaning the knee area. They may also use a local anesthetic to numb the injection site. Then, the injection is administered using a sterile technique, with the hyaluronic acid solution injected directly into the knee joint’s synovial space. The procedure for each injection is quick and can be done in a doctor’s office.
• Post-Injection Care: Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours after the procedure to allow the medication to settle in the joint. Light activities and normal walking are generally permitted.

Conclusion

Deciding between Monovisc and Orthovisc depends a lot on your health needs. Monovisc offers a robust, single-shot treatment, while Orthovisc requires more visits and 3-4 shots.

Each has shown promising results in easing knee pain from osteoarthritis. Talk with your doctor to see which option best meets your needs. This choice brings hope to those seeking relief from knee pain without surgery—it’s about finding the right fit for you.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between Monovisc and Orthovisc?

Monovisc and Orthovisc are both used for osteoarthritis knee pain relief. The main difference is their composition – Monovisc is a single injection treatment, while Orthovisc requires multiple injections.

2. Which one is better, Monovisc or Orthovisc?

The “better” treatment depends on individual needs… Some patients prefer a one-time injection like Monovisc, while others benefit more from the gradual relief provided by multiple Orthovisc injections.

3. Are there any side effects to using either Monovisc or Orthovisc?

Yes, possible side effects can include mild pain at the injection site or allergic reactions. Discussing these potential risks with your healthcare provider before choosing a treatment plan is essential.

4. Can I switch between treatments if one isn’t working well for me?

It’s best to consult with your doctor about this. They can assess your condition and suggest whether switching from Monivosc to Orthivosc – or vice versa – could benefit you.

References

Oo, W. M., & Hunter, J. (2023).Intra-articular Therapies for Knee Osteoarthritis: Current Update. Current Treatment Options in Rheumatology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40674-023-00207-x

Drugs.com. (n.d.). Monovisc vs. Orthovisc: Compare their differences. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/compare/monovisc-vs-orthovisc 

Peck, J., Slovek, A., Miro, P., Vij, N., Traube, B., Lee, C., Berger, A. A., Kassem, H., Kaye, A. D., Sherman, W. F., & Abd-Elsayed, A. (2021). A Comprehensive Review of Viscosupplementation in Osteoarthritis of the Knee. Orthopedic reviews, 13(2), 25549. https://doi.org/10.52965/001c.25549