Synvisc Side Effects – A Thorough List

A systematic review found that hyaluronic acid injections, such as Synvisc, can significantly improve symptoms and slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis. These injections offer a promising alternative for managing pain and improving joint function.

Synvisc is an injectable treatment that supplements the knee’s natural fluid, providing lubrication and cushioning to reduce discomfort and improve mobility. However, like any medical treatment, it carries the risk of side effects that patients should be aware of.

In this article, we will provide a thorough list of Synvisc side effects, helping you understand the potential risks and what to expect during treatment.

Key Takeaways

• Synvisc is an injectable treatment that helps alleviate knee pain caused by osteoarthritis by mimicking the body’s natural joint fluid. It lubricates and cushions the knee joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.
• Common side effects include pain or swelling at the injection site, mild itching, and a temporary increase in joint pain. These are typically mild and resolve within a few days.
• Rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, severe swelling, infection, and blood clots. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
• Mild side effects can be managed using ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, severe symptoms require contacting a healthcare provider right away.
• Being informed about Synvisc side effects and knowing when to seek medical attention helps ensure safe and effective treatment.

About: Doctor Medica is your trusted supplier of top-quality dermal fillers, viscosupplements, and more for your medical practice. We offer genuine products from leading brands at the lowest prices in the market. If you’re looking to order Synvisc online for your practice, contact the Doctor Medica today.

What is Synvisc?

Synvisc is a medical treatment designed to alleviate knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. It also comes in a single-dose injection called Synvisc One. Both treatments are injected directly into the knee joint, mimicking the body’s natural joint fluid to provide lubrication and cushioning. This helps reduce pain and make movement smoother and less painful for individuals dealing with osteoarthritis.

When considering Synvisc injections, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. On the positive side, many patients experience noticeable pain relief and improved mobility, often lasting up to six months. However, Synvisc may not work for everyone. Understanding things like the Synvisc and Synvisc One pros and cons helps patients decide about their treatment options.

Common Side Effects of Synvisc

• Pain or Swelling at the Injection Site: After receiving a Synvisc injection, some patients may experience pain or swelling at the site where the needle was inserted. This is a common side effect, but for most people, it is mild and resolves within a few days.
• Mild Itching or Skin Irritation: Some patients may experience mild itching or skin irritation around the injection area. While this side effect is not very common, it can cause discomfort for a short time.
• Temporary Increase in Joint Pain: Patients sometimes report a temporary increase in joint pain after the injection. This can be concerning, but it typically subsides shortly after the treatment. 

Rare Side Effects of Synvisc

• Allergic Reactions Such as Hives or Rash: Patients may experience an allergic reaction to Synvisc, which can manifest as hives or a rash. Although this is a rare occurrence, allergic reactions should be taken seriously.
• Difficulty Breathing or Tightness in the Chest: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of tightness in the chest is another rare but serious side effect. This could indicate a severe allergic reaction to the injection.
• Severe Swelling of the Face, Lips, or Tongue: Some individuals may develop severe swelling of the face, lips, or tongue swelling due to an allergic reaction to Synvisc injections. 

Serious Side Effects of Synvisc

• Infection at the Injection Site: This occurs when bacteria enter the area, leading to pain, swelling, and redness. If these symptoms develop, prompt medical attention is necessary.
• Blood Clot in the Leg: Although rare, blood clots can form in the leg after receiving a Synvisc injection. Symptoms include sudden leg pain or swelling, and immediate medical care is required if these occur to prevent further complications.
• Numbness or Tingling: Some patients may experience numbness or tingling in their leg or around the knee. This can happen if nerves near the injection site are affected.
• Severe Headache or Dizziness: While uncommon, severe headaches or dizziness may occur after the injection. If these symptoms arise, they could signal a serious issue.

Managing Synvisc Side Effects

Applying ice to the injection site can significantly reduce swelling and pain after a Synvisc shot. Use ice for 20 minutes at a time, placing a cloth between the ice and your skin to prevent frostbite. Stop and contact your doctor if you notice increased pain or swelling after using ice.

For lingering pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) are effective options. These medications are widely available and help most patients manage discomfort after the injection.

If severe symptoms persist or worsen—such as difficulty breathing, significant facial or leg swelling, or unrelenting pain—it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Prompt attention to serious side effects ensures appropriate care and prevents complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to be aware of potential symptoms that may require immediate medical attention after a Synvisc injection. While mild side effects are common, certain signs should not be ignored.

• Signs of an Allergic Reaction: If you notice symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, it may indicate a serious allergic reaction. These symptoms require immediate medical intervention, as they can escalate quickly.
• Persistent or Worsening Joint Pain: Mild discomfort after the injection is normal, but if the joint pain becomes more intense or persists longer than expected, it could signal an underlying issue. Consult your healthcare provider to rule out complications or infection.
• Unexplained Swelling or Redness at the Injection Site: Some swelling or redness is expected after the injection, but if these symptoms worsen or don’t improve within a few days, it may be a sign of infection. If swelling or redness becomes more pronounced or is accompanied by fever, contact your doctor for further evaluation.

Conclusion

While Synvisc side effects can be concerning, most patients experience only minor issues, such as pain or swelling at the injection site, which tend to resolve quickly. More severe complications like infection or blood clots may occur in rare cases.

If you notice any serious symptoms, it’s essential to contact your doctor promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and ensure that you receive the appropriate care for a smooth recovery.

FAQs

1. What are the most common side effects of Synvisc?

The most common side effects include pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site. These symptoms are usually mild and go away within a few days.

2. What should I do if I experience severe side effects after a Synvisc injection?

If you notice severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or tongue, or persistent joint pain, you should contact your doctor immediately. These could indicate a serious allergic reaction or infection.

3. How long do the effects of Synvisc typically last?

Synvisc can relieve pain and improve joint function for up to six months for many patients. 

4. Can I continue physical activities after receiving a Synvisc injection?

It’s recommended to avoid strenuous physical activities for the first 48 hours after the injection. Light activities, like walking, are generally okay.

References

O’Hanlon CE, Newberry SJ, Booth M, et al. Hyaluronic acid injection therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee: concordant efficacy and conflicting serious adverse events in two systematic reviews. Systematic Reviews. 2016;5(1). doi:10.1186/s13643-016-0363-9

Drugs.com. (n.d.). Synvisc. Retrieved October 11, 2024, from https://www.drugs.com/synvisc.html

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