Synvisc vs Monovisc – A Thorough Comparison

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disorder affecting millions worldwide. Research shows that most individuals with OA experience arthritis-attributable activity limitations, impacting their ability to perform everyday tasks. This condition also imposes a significant economic burden, with direct medical costs reaching billions annually in the United States.

One non-surgical treatment option for OA is viscosupplementation, where injections like Synvisc and Monovisc provide lubrication to the joint, reducing pain and improving function. Both products aim to enhance mobility and alleviate symptoms associated with knee OA.

This article will explore the differences between Synvisc vs Monovisc, discussing their benefits, side effects, and which might be the better choice for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Key Takeaways

• Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder affecting millions worldwide, leading to activity limitations and significant economic burdens.
• Viscosupplementation with products like Synvisc and Monovisc aims to reduce pain and improve joint function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
• Both Synvisc and Monovisc use hyaluronic acid to lubricate the knee joint, but they differ in their sources and administration protocols.
• Synvisc requires three shots over three weeks, while Monovisc is administered in a single shot, offering a different approach for patients.
• Clinical studies show that both Synvisc and Monovisc are effective in easing pain and improving movement in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
• Patient experiences with Synvisc and Monovisc vary, and choosing between the two depends on individual needs and preferences.

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Introduction to Synvisc and Monovisc

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. This leads to pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected joints. The knees are particularly vulnerable to osteoarthritis, and patients often experience stiffness and discomfort when performing everyday activities like walking or bending.

Doctors may recommend treatments like Synvisc and Monovisc to manage knee osteoarthritis. These viscosupplements introduce a gel-like substance into the knee joint to mimic the natural synovial fluid. This gel helps reduce friction between the bones, easing pain and improving mobility. Both Synvisc and Monovisc are designed to enhance the quality of life for people suffering from knee osteoarthritis.

Active Ingredients

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring, gel-like substance found in the body, particularly in the joints and eyes. In the joints, it acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, allowing for smoother, pain-free movement. For individuals with osteoarthritis, the natural levels of hyaluronic acid decrease, leading to stiffness and discomfort.

Both Synvisc and Monovisc use hyaluronic acid to improve knee mobility and reduce pain, but there are key differences. Synvisc’s hyaluronic acid is derived from rooster combs, closely mimicking the natural fluid found in joints. Monovisc, on the other hand, uses hyaluronic acid produced by bacteria through biofermentation, making it a non-animal product.

There is also a significant difference in the concentration and delivery of hyaluronic acid. Synvisc delivers its treatment over the course of three injections, spaced over several weeks. Each injection contains lower molecular weight hyaluronic acid. Monovisc, however, is a single-injection treatment with higher molecular weight hyaluronic acid, providing the same relief in just one session.

Patients looking for alternative treatments should also consider comparing Synvisc vs Durolane, as Durolane is another viscosupplement that provides long-lasting pain relief with a single injection.

Administration Protocols

The injection process for both Synvisc and Monovisc involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider will clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
2. Anesthesia: A local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort during the injection.
3. Aspiration (if necessary): If there is excess fluid in the knee, it may be aspirated (removed) before the injection.
4. Injection: The Synvisc or Monovisc solution is injected directly into the knee joint using a sterile needle.
5. Post-Injection Care: Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for a short period after the injection to allow the medication to settle in the joint.

Frequency of Injections for Both Products

• Synvisc: Typically administered as three injections, given one week apart. Some patients may experience relief after the first injection, but the full benefit is usually observed after the third injection.
• Monovisc: Administered as a single injection. This one-time treatment is designed to relieve pain for up to six months, depending on the patient’s response to the therapy.

Effectiveness and Patient Reviews

Patient reviews and experiences show that both Synvisc and Monovisc help people with knee osteoarthritis:

• Synvisc: “I have mild to moderate osteoarthritis in my right knee from an ACL reconstruction in 2000 and meniscectomy in 2016 to clean up meniscal tears. I have been using Synvisc-One for over 2 years and it has been very effective. It takes me from having a stiff, painful knee to a nearly fully functional joint that I can train and do fairly high-impact sports on. It takes a week or two for it to kick in after an injection. Knee feels stiff and achy at first, but it eases up and within a month, you forget you ever had OA. With the single injection, you are adding an extra 6 ml to the 6 ml already in your knee joint capsule. No wonder it feels full at first. Rest and give it a week or so to blend in. I am 56 and surf nearly every day. Synvisc-One is the miracle solution that keeps my knee pain-free and functional. I highly recommend it.”
• Monovisc: “I had my first Monovisc injection in September 2019; my second was due in March 2020, but then COVID hit. Finally, I was able to have the second injection in May 2020. These injections have been great for both knees. I am bone on bone in my right knee. I went to two different Orthopedic Surgeons before having the injections. Both recommended getting them, and I am so happy I did. No pain, no issues with the injections, and they help! I will continue with the Monovisc injections until I can’t have them or they don’t work. Both surgeons said I can continue these until they don’t work; some patients continue and never need knee replacement. Wouldn’t that be great? It’s a big yes vote from me.”

Conclusion

Choosing between Synvisc vs Monovisc depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prefer fewer injections and a quicker treatment process, Monovisc may be the more convenient option. However, if you have pain in multiple joints, Synvisc, which can treat various areas, might offer broader relief.

Both treatments are effective at reducing knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, but the best choice ultimately depends on your health goals and lifestyle. Be sure to consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable treatment for you, ensuring you get the relief that best fits your needs.

FAQs

1. What are Synvisc and Monovisc?

Synvisc and Monovisc are injections used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

2. How do Synvisc and Monovisc work?

Both treatments act like a lubricant in your knee, helping it move smoothly and reduce pain.

3. Are there any differences between Synvisc and Monovisc?

While both serve the same purpose, their composition and dosage regimes differ. It’s best to discuss which might be more suitable for you with your doctor.

4. Are there any side effects associated with these treatments?

Synvisc and Monovisc can have potential side effects, just like all medical procedures. These may include swelling or discomfort at the injection site, among others.

References

Osteoarthritis Action Alliance. (n.d.). OA prevalence and burden. Retrieved October 11, 2024, from https://oaaction.unc.edu/oa-module/oa-prevalence-and-burden/ 

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