Synvisc

Synvisc is a medication approved for treating arthritis of the knee in people who have not received adequate pain relief from other medications or treatments. It comes in the form of a gel-like liquid that is injected directly into the knee joint to cushion and lubricate it. Your healthcare provider will give you an injection once a week for three weeks.

Synvisc Injections

What Is Synvisc?

Synvisc^® (hylan G-F 20) is an osteoarthritis treatment that is injected directly into the knee to cushion and lubricate the joint. Such treatments are known as viscosupplements. It is given as three separate injections (each one week apart) and helps relieve pain for up to six months.

This medication is most appropriate for individuals who have not received adequate pain relief from other arthritis treatments (such as medications) but who are not yet good candidates for knee replacement surgery.

(Click Synvisc Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes This Drug?

Synvisc is manufactured by Genzyme Biosurgery, a division of Genzyme Corporation.

How Does Synvisc Work?

Healthy joints contain a fluid, known as synovial fluid, that works like a cushion and lubricant for the joint. In people with osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid may break down, becoming thinner and less able to protect the joint.

Synvisc contains a mixture of hylan A and hylan B, two substances made from sodium hyaluronate, a natural product obtained from chicken combs. Hyaluronate is also found in the human body, especially within the joints and the synovial fluid. Injecting Synvisc into the joint helps provide the cushioning and lubrication lacking in the arthritic joint.

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