Orthovisc ^*

Orthovisc may begin to provide pain relief for some patients within a few days of the first injection. However, the full therapeutic benefits are typically experienced after completing the entire course of three or four weekly injections. The peak effect often occurs several weeks after the final injection and can last for several months, providing sustained relief from osteoarthritis symptoms.

The standard treatment course for Orthovisc involves a series of injections. Your doctor will typically recommend one injection into the affected knee per week for three or four consecutive weeks. Completing the full series is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome. The exact number of treatments depends on your specific medical condition and your doctor’s clinical judgment based on your response.

After receiving an Orthovisc injection, you should avoid strenuous activities for at least 48 hours. This includes jogging, tennis, heavy lifting, or standing on your feet for long periods. These precautions help the medication settle properly within the joint and minimize irritation. You can resume normal, light activities as tolerated. Your doctor will provide specific post-injection instructions tailored to your needs.

The Orthovisc injection may cause some discomfort, similar to other types of joint injections. Your doctor can minimize pain by applying a local anesthetic spray or cream to numb the skin before the procedure. While you might feel a brief pinch and some pressure during the injection, most patients tolerate it well. Any pain at the injection site afterward is usually mild and temporary.

Orthovisc can provide pain relief that lasts for up to six months after completing the full course of injections. The duration of effect varies among individuals, depending on the severity of their osteoarthritis and their personal activity level. Some patients may experience relief for a longer period, while others might need to repeat the treatment course after six months to maintain the benefits.

After your Orthovisc injection, it is recommended to avoid high-impact or strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours. Light, gentle range-of-motion exercises, like simple walking or swimming, can usually be resumed sooner as guided by your doctor. Strenuous activity can put stress on the knee and may cause increased pain or swelling. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding physical activity after your treatment.

If you miss a scheduled Orthovisc injection, you should contact your doctor's office as soon as possible to reschedule. It is important to follow the prescribed weekly schedule as closely as possible to get the maximum benefit from the treatment. Your doctor will advise on how to proceed, which may involve adjusting the timing of your remaining injections to get back on track with the therapy.

Orthovisc is specifically FDA-approved for treating osteoarthritis pain in the knee joint. While hyaluronic acid injections are sometimes used off-label by doctors to treat other joints like the hip or shoulder, the safety and effectiveness for these uses have not been formally established in clinical trials. You should only use Orthovisc for the knee unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider.

Orthovisc is often covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare, for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. However, coverage can vary, and pre-authorization is often required. You will need to check with your specific insurance provider to confirm the details of your coverage, including any copayments or deductibles. Our team at IsraelPharm can provide documentation to assist with your insurance claims if needed.

Orthovisc is not known to have major interactions with most oral medications. However, you should inform your doctor about all drugs you are taking, including over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements. Specifically, you should discuss the use of blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin, as they may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising at the injection site. Your doctor will provide guidance.

Orthovisc should not be used in individuals with certain conditions. People with known allergies to hyaluronic acid products or avian proteins, such as eggs, feathers, or poultry, should avoid it. Additionally, if you have an active infection in your knee joint or a skin disease at the planned injection site, the procedure must be postponed until the condition is resolved.

Orthovisc and corticosteroid injections both treat knee osteoarthritis but work differently. Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that provide rapid, but often shorter-term, pain relief. Orthovisc is a viscosupplement that restores the natural cushioning and lubrication in the joint, offering more gradual but potentially longer-lasting relief. Your doctor will help decide which option is more appropriate for your specific condition and treatment goals.