Orthovisc® (sodium hyaluronate) is a sterile, clear and colourless, nontoxic, nonallergic, nonpyrogenic, noninflamammatory, highly purified, high molecular-weight, highly concentrated, high viscosity, non-cross-linked, biocompatible form of hyaluronan for intra-articular injection. Orthovisc® reduces joint pain and improves joint mobility, safely and effectively providing significant relief from the pain of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Orthovisc® supplements the synovial fluid to naturally augment lubrication, cushioning and offer superior protection to the arthritic knee joint.

Orthovisc® is injected using a simple, noninvasive procedure called viscsupplementation. The procedure is performed by an orthopaedic surgeon, rheumatologist, or other qualified health professional. The doctor prepares the patient’s knee with a local anesthetic, then injects Orthovisc® directly into the knee joint where it combines with the existing synovial fluid. Orthovisc® acts specifically in the knee joints, so it will not interfere with any other medications the patient is taking.

For many patients, relief of osteoarthritic discomfort begins immediately. However, full benefits are only achieved after three simple treatments given at weekly intervals. For optimal results to be realized it is important to receive all three treatments.