The fluid (synovial fluid) in your knee helps to lubricate and cushion the joint during movement. The major component in the synovial fluid is hyaluronic acid, the equivalent active component of GenVisc 850. One of the early effects of OA is to break down this fluid, making it less effective. It is thought that GenVisc 850 helps restore the synovial fluid to a more healthy state, thereby reducing the pain of OA.

GenVisc 850 is an intra-articular injection, which is injected into the space of the affected joint, between your thigh and calf bone.

GenVisc 850 is supported by the largest and longest duration double blinded clinical study of hyaluronic acids for knee osteoarthritis. Clinical studies demonstrated that five injections one week apart provide optimal pain relief. Some patients have derived benefits following the third injection. The effectiveness of less than three injections has not been evaluated.

Each patient’s response to GenVisc 850 may vary. Depending on the severity of your OA, degree of pain, and pre-existing medical conditions. In some patients, successful treatment may reduce pain within the first week after treatment begins. However, based upon clinical trials, most patients experience pain relief after their third injection of GenVisc 850 given at weekly intervals.

You and your healthcare provider will decide upon the best course of treatment. Injection of subcutaneous lidocaine or similar local anesthetic may be recommended by your healthcare provider prior to injection of GenVisc 850. (See GenVisc 850 Patient Information)

Each patient reacts differently to GenVisc 850 treatment. The benefits of GenVisc 850 can last for months. In clinical studies many patients experience 6 months or more pain relief. There are reports in the literature of pain relief beyond 6 months.

GenVisc 850 is approved and has been determined to be safe and effective. It has also been used throughout the world over the past 20 years.† Now approved in 64 countries, with over 45 million syringes distributed worldwide.

It is recommended that you avoid strenuous activities such as jogging, tennis, and heavy lifting for at least 48 hours after receiving an injection. Your healthcare provider will advise you about the level of activity that is right for you. Most patients are able to maintain their normal daily activities after receiving GenVisc 850 treatment.

Because GenVisc 850 is injected directly into the joint rather than administered systemically, and there are no known drug interactions, you may be able to take other medications with it. GenVisc 850 is not known to interfere with other pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. The safety and effectiveness of the use of GenVisc 850 at the same time as other intra-articular injections, such as steroids, has not been established. Because it is administered locally it is unlikely that you will observe any benefit in joints not specifically injected. You should discuss all of your current medications and vitamin supplements with your physician on a periodic basis.

Avoid this product if you have a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to GenVisc 850 or HA products such as rash, itching, hives, flushing, swelling of the face, tongue or throat, and/or difficulty breathing.

Avoid in people with infections or skin diseases in the area of the injection site.

Please see the Full Prescribing Information.

Some side effects may occur during the use of GenVisc 850, with symptoms such as knee pain, inflammation, reddening, swelling appearing at the injection site and/or joint pain. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects after treatment of GenVisc 850.

Most insurance carriers and Medicare cover GenVisc 850. The process of obtaining reimbursement varies from plan to plan so talk with your doctor’s office and your insurance provider before you begin treatment to find out if GenVisc 850 is covered.