Synvisc vs Euflexxa – Comparing OA Treatments

Did you know that as of 2023, 21.2% of adults in the United States have been diagnosed with arthritis? One of the most common forms is osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative disease that causes joint pain as synovial fluid breaks down. To manage these symptoms, knee injections like viscosupplements are often recommended.

Two popular injectable treatments for knee OA are Synvisc and Euflexxa. Both aim to lubricate the joint and improve mobility, but their hyaluronic acid-based formulations differ, which can impact patient outcomes and preferences.

In this article, we will compare Synvisc vs Euflexxa, examining their effectiveness, potential side effects, and other key factors to help you make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• Synvisc and Euflexxa are both hyaluronic acid-based injections used to manage knee osteoarthritis (OA), improve joint lubrication, and reduce pain.
• Synvisc offers a single-dose option, Synvisc-One, which provides up to six months of relief, making it more convenient for some patients.
• Euflexxa typically requires three injections over three weeks but is often more cost-effective than Synvisc, making it a more affordable option for long-term treatment.
• Both treatments have similar side effect profiles, including knee pain, swelling, and mild injection site reactions.
• Choosing between Synvisc vs Euflexxa depends on individual patient needs, treatment preferences, and insurance coverage.

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Introduction to Synvisc and Euflexxa

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage between bones wears down over time. This leads to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. It commonly affects the knees, making everyday activities more challenging.

Many patients turn to viscosupplements, such as Synvisc and Euflexxa, to help manage knee pain caused by OA. These injections replenish the knee’s natural synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, reducing pain and improving joint movement. Viscosupplements provide an alternative to more invasive treatments like knee replacement surgery.

Comparing Synvisc vs Euflexxa is crucial for patients seeking relief from knee OA. While both treatments are designed to improve mobility and reduce pain, understanding their differences can help individuals make the best choice for their specific needs and preferences.

Formulations and Mechanisms of Action

Synvisc contains hylan G-F 20, a cross-linked form of hyaluronic acid derived from rooster combs. This thicker formulation helps Synvisc act as a better shock absorber and lubricant in the knee joint.

Once injected, it mimics the synovial fluid found naturally in the body, improving joint movement and reducing pain. However, it’s essential to be aware of possible Synvisc side effects, including pain or swelling at the injection site and stiffness or warmth in the knee.

On the other hand, Euflexxa is made from bioengineered hyaluronic acid (not derived from animal sources). Its composition is similar to the natural hyaluronic acid found in the body. Like Synvisc, Euflexxa replenishes synovial fluid in the joint, reducing bone friction and improving mobility. Euflexxa’s smoother formulation may result in fewer injection site reactions than Synvisc.

While both treatments aim to restore lubrication and cushioning in the knee, Synvisc’s cross-linked structure may provide additional durability and longer-lasting effects in some patients.

Treatment Protocols

• Synvisc: Patients typically receive a series of three injections, each spaced one week apart. Patients may sometimes opt for Synvisc One, a single-injection option that delivers the same amount of hyaluronic acid in one dose, offering greater convenience. The three-injection series is spread over several weeks, while the single-injection option provides up to six months of pain relief.
• Euflexxa: This treatment also requires three injections administered one week apart. This schedule is designed to provide effective relief throughout the treatment, reducing joint swelling and improving knee cushioning. 

The key difference between these two protocols lies in the availability of Synvisc One for those who prefer a single-dose option, while Euflexxa maintains a three-shot regimen. Both options allow patients to experience long-term relief, but Synvisc’s added flexibility may appeal to those seeking fewer injections.

Overall Effectiveness and Considerations

Multiple randomized, controlled studies have demonstrated that Synvisc provides significant pain relief for up to 6 months compared to baseline and saline control. Patients receiving Synvisc reported an average 44.8% reduction in pain at 12 months.

Euflexxa has also been evaluated in several clinical trials. A 12-week double-blind, randomized study involving 321 patients with stage 2-3 OA of the knee showed that Euflexxa was non-inferior to Synvisc in terms of pain relief. Both treatments demonstrated statistically significant improvements from baseline, with Euflexxa showing powerful pain relief as early as one week after the first injection.

In terms of safety, both treatments have similar adverse event profiles, with common side effects, including knee pain and swelling. However, individual patient responses can vary, and it is essential to consider factors such as patient history, severity of OA, and previous treatment responses when choosing between these two options.

Conclusion

Deciding between Synvisc vs Euflexxa for knee osteoarthritis treatment can be difficult, as both options effectively reduce pain and improve mobility. The best choice depends on your individual needs, treatment preferences, and insurance coverage.

Euflexxa may be the more affordable option, but Synvisc offers the convenience of a single-injection alternative, potentially requiring fewer doctor visits. It’s important to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider to determine which treatment aligns best with your goals and medical history.

FAQs

1. What are the primary differences between Synvisc and Euflexxa?

Synvisc contains hylan G-F 20, derived from rooster combs, while Euflexxa uses bioengineered hyaluronic acid. Synvisc also offers a single-dose option, Synvisc-One, whereas Euflexxa requires three injections over several weeks.

2. How long does the pain relief last for each treatment?

Synvisc and Euflexxa typically relieve pain for up to six months, although individual responses can vary.

3. Is Synvisc more expensive than Euflexxa?

Yes, Synvisc is generally more expensive, but its single-dose option may reduce the need for multiple doctor visits. On the other hand, Euflexxa is more cost-effective, making it a better option for some patients, especially those without comprehensive insurance coverage.

References

National Center for Health Statistics. Percentage of arthritis diagnosis for adults aged 18 and over, United States, 2019—2023. National Health Interview Survey. Generated interactively: Oct 14 2024 from https://wwwn.cdc.gov/NHISDataQueryTool/SHS_adult/index.html

Fan, Z., Yan, L., Liu, H., et al. (2023). The prevalence of hip osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Arthritis Research & Therapy, 25(51). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13075-023-03033-7

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