Synvisc Prescribing Information – Information for Professionals

Proper prescribing information is key to ensuring medication use is safe and effective. To help with this, the FDA has recently updated its guidelines, making drug labels more accessible and informative. Research has shown that clearer prescribing guidelines can significantly lower the chances of preventable medication errors, leading to better outcomes for patients.

Synvisc, a viscosupplement often prescribed for people with osteoarthritis, is one such medication for which understanding the correct dosing and administration is crucial. For healthcare providers, knowing the right dosing and administration details ensures that they can make informed treatment decisions and give patients the best possible relief.

In this article, we’ll discuss the Synvisc prescribing information, including its dosing guidelines, administration tips, and important considerations healthcare professionals should consider.

Key Takeaways

• Synvisc is a treatment for knee osteoarthritis that can be used to manage pain, especially when other treatments have failed. It helps improve joint lubrication, making movement smoother.
• The treatment consists of three injections, given one week apart, and can provide relief for up to six months.
• Synvisc works by acting like hyaluronic acid, a natural lubricant in your joints, helping to reduce pain and stiffness.
• People with allergies to hyaluronan or those with infections around the injection site shouldn’t use Synvisc.
• Common side effects include pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, but more serious reactions like allergic responses or joint infections are rare.

Introduction to Synvisc

Synvisc is a treatment used to help manage osteoarthritis, particularly in the knees, by easing pain and stiffness. It’s made from hylan G-F 20, which is similar to hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in your joints that keeps them lubricated and cushioned. In people with osteoarthritis, the joint fluid can break down, leading to less lubrication, more friction between the bones, and increased discomfort.

When injected, Synvisc acts as a lubricant, restoring some of the lost cushioning and allowing the joint to move more smoothly. This can lead to significant pain relief, making daily activities more manageable. The treatment helps reduce joint pain for up to six months for many patients, giving them a break from chronic pain without requiring frequent doses.

Synvisc is typically recommended for people with knee osteoarthritis who haven’t found enough relief from other non-surgical options like pain relievers or physical therapy. However, some providers may also use this treatment for off-label applications, such as Synvisc injections for hips.

Dosage and Administration

The standard Synvisc dosage for treating knee osteoarthritis is a series of three injections, each containing 2 mL of the solution. These injections are spaced one week apart and are designed to gradually reduce pain and improve joint function. Most patients find that relief from pain lasts up to six months after treatment completion.

Administration Route and Injection Technique

Synvisc is administered through an intra-articular injection, which means it’s injected directly into the knee joint. Before the injection, the doctor will clean the area thoroughly, and in some cases, they may need to remove any excess fluid from the joint to create space for the Synvisc injection. 

To ensure the treatment works effectively, patients are usually advised to avoid any strenuous activity for about 48 hours after each injection.

Contraindications and Warnings

Patients with a known allergy to hyaluronan products should not receive Synvisc injections, as this could trigger a severe reaction. Before treatment, doctors will always check for any known allergies to ensure patient safety and minimize the risk of complications.

Proper care must also be taken to ensure the injection site is clean and free from germs. If there’s an existing infection or skin condition around the knee, the injection should not be administered, as it could worsen the situation or lead to further complications. For this reason, healthcare providers thoroughly evaluate the area and may postpone the treatment if any issues are detected.

Safety Considerations and Adverse Reactions

While Synvisc is generally well-tolerated, there are a few side effects you should be aware of. Most people experience only mild reactions, but in some rare cases, more serious issues can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Pain or swelling where the injection was given
• Warmth or redness around the knee joint
• Stiffness in the joint for a short time
• Mild inflammation or discomfort that usually goes away after a few days

Serious Adverse Reactions

• Severe allergic reactions, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe rashes/hives
• Infection in the joint
• Severe joint pain or swelling that doesn’t go away

Precautions for Specific Groups

Some people need to be extra cautious when using Synvisc:

• If you have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners, there’s a higher risk of bleeding after the injection.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Synvisc because there isn’t enough data on its safety in these groups.
• Older adults may be more at risk of joint infections, so a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is important before proceeding with the treatment.

Conclusion

Synvisc can be a great option for people dealing with knee pain from osteoarthritis, especially when other treatments haven’t worked. The injection process is simple and can provide relief for up to six months, helping patients move more comfortably. However, it’s important to avoid Synvisc if you have allergies to hyaluronan or any infections around the injection site.

After the injection, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for any side effects and let your doctor know if anything unusual happens to ensure you’re getting the safest, most effective treatment possible.

FAQs

1. How long does Synvisc’s pain relief last?

Most patients feel relief for up to six months after finishing their course of injections, though the exact duration can vary from person to person.

2. Who should avoid getting Synvisc?

Synvisc isn’t recommended for people who have allergies to hyaluronan or for those with active infections in or around the joint. It’s also best to avoid it if you have a bleeding disorder or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

3. Can Synvisc be used for other joints besides the knee?

Synvisc is FDA-approved for treating knee osteoarthritis, but some doctors may use it off-label for other joints, like the hip. 

4. How does Synvisc compare to steroid injections?

Steroid injections provide quick, short-term relief by reducing inflammation, while Synvisc offers longer-lasting relief by improving the lubrication and cushioning of the joint, which can last several months.

References

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Information for health care professionals (drugs). Retrieved October 11, 2024, from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-drugs/information-health-care-professionals-drugs

Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Electronic Prescribing Systems and Their Impact on Patient Safety in Hospitals. https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-08/evidence_briefings_on_interventions_to_improve_medication_safety_5_prescribing_systems_and_their_impact_on_patient_safety_in_hospitals_july_2021.pdf‌

RxList. (n.d.). Synvisc (Hylan G-F 20) drug information. Retrieved September 18, 2024, from https://www.rxlist.com/synvisc-drug.htm