About Neovisc Injection

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Neovisc Injection.

Neovisc injections contain a purified substance that occurs naturally in the synovial fluid produced by joints. It is typically used to treat osteoarthritis in the knees. Joints may become stiff and painful as a result of osteoarthritis. Neovisc injections assist the natural properties of synovial fluid by enhancing elasticity and viscosity. This, in turn, increases mobility and lubrication and decreases pain.

Most treatment consists of three weekly Neovisc injections, delivered directly into the synovial space within a joint. Patients with severe symptoms may receive treatment for five weeks. The time required to feel relief varies depending on individual conditions and the severity of the osteoarthritis. There may be some noticeable improvement following the second injection, although peak results generally occur somewhere between 15 and 30 days after the last injection.

Receiving Neovisc injections may encourage the joint's tissue cells to produce more of the natural substance, Hyaluronate, that Neovisc supplies. This natural production can extend treatment benefits to as long as six to eight months. When symptoms reappear, patients may receive a new course of injections.

Because Neovisc contains a substance the body produces naturally, few side effects have been reported. Most symptoms relate to injection site discomfort or irritation. If pain persists more than 12 hours, or if the site becomes swollen or inflamed, contact your physician right away. If headache or upset stomach occur and persist, contact your physician.

In order for Neovisc to work properly, patients must receive the full course of injections, even if symptom relief occurs sooner. Patients should avoid strenuous activity during the first 24 hours after receiving Neovisc injections, and also avoid using skin disinfectants that contain ammonium salts.

Women who are pregnant, who plan to become pregnant or who are breastfeeding should inform their doctors and discuss possible risks of taking Neovisc. Specific issues are unknown.