Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of disability among adults, affecting their ability to perform daily activities and reducing overall quality of life. The pain and stiffness associated with this condition can make even simple tasks challenging.
Monovisc, a hyaluronic acid injection, offers relief for knee osteoarthritis by replenishing the joint’s natural lubricant. This single-dose injection is designed to improve knee function, reduce pain, and enhance mobility for patients who have not found relief through other treatments.
In this article, we will explore the Monovisc dosage and schedule, detailing how the treatment works, its administration protocol, and key considerations for optimal results.
Key Takeaways
- Monovisc is a single-dose injection containing 4 mL of high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, designed to relieve knee osteoarthritis pain.
- It mimics the knee’s natural joint fluid, providing lubrication and shock absorption.
- The effects of Monovisc can last up to six months, offering long-term pain relief with minimal follow-up injections.
- Patients who have not found success with other treatments, such as physical therapy or pain medication, may benefit from Monovisc.
- It is administered directly into the knee joint and typically requires close monitoring by healthcare providers for any side effects.
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What is Monovisc?
Monovisc is a specialized treatment for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, a condition that occurs when the natural cushioning between knee joints wears down, leading to pain and stiffness. Monovisc is unique because it contains high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid derived from a non-animal source. This formulation mimics the natural joint fluid, providing lubrication and shock absorption to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
Monovisc is designed to restore the synovial fluid in the knee joint, acting as a lubricant and shock absorber to ease pain and enhance joint function. Unlike steroids, which often require repeated injections, Monovisc offers long-lasting relief with just one injection, making it a convenient option for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.
Initial Treatment Protocol
Monovisc is intended for patients with knee pain due to osteoarthritis who haven’t found relief from more conservative treatments. Each injection contains 4 mL of Monovisc, administered directly into the affected knee. This single injection simplifies the treatment process, offering a quick and efficient solution.
The single injection of Monovisc offers benefits comparable to those of other products requiring multiple injections, such as Orthovisc. Many patients begin to experience relief within a few weeks, and the effects can last for up to six months. Monovisc’s non-animal-sourced hyaluronic acid provides effective relief with minimal need for follow-up treatments.
Subsequent Doses
If both knees require treatment, two separate syringes are used. The effects of Monovisc typically last up to six months, with follow-up doses considered based on the patient’s response to the initial treatment.
If the pain returns after this period, doctors may recommend another injection to maintain the benefits. The need for additional doses is assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on how long the initial relief lasts and the patient’s condition.
Doctors carefully monitor each patient’s response to Monovisc, evaluating pain levels, knee function, and overall quality of life improvements. If swelling, discomfort, or other side effects occur, they are addressed promptly. Regular follow-up appointments ensure the treatment remains effective and any potential side effects are managed.
Considerations for Healthcare Providers
Before administering Monovisc, healthcare providers must conduct a thorough patient assessment to confirm a diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis. Ensuring that the patient’s symptoms have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy or pain medications is essential. This evaluation helps determine whether Monovisc is the appropriate next step in managing the patient’s knee pain.
Although Monovisc is typically administered as a single 4 mL injection, providers should assess each patient’s specific needs, particularly in cases where both knees are affected. In such instances, two separate injections (one per knee) may be required to ensure optimal relief and improved mobility.
After treatment, healthcare providers should closely monitor the patient’s response to the injection, looking for common side effects such as swelling, mild pain, or warmth at the injection site. While most patients tolerate Monovisc well, any signs of complications should be addressed promptly.
Patients often compare the side effect profiles of Monovisc vs Synvisc when considering treatment options, as both are effective for knee osteoarthritis but differ in terms of dosing and potential reactions. Understanding these differences can help healthcare providers manage patient expectations and ensure successful outcomes.
Conclusion
Monovisc offers an effective, single-dose solution for relieving knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, especially when other treatments have failed. With a 4 mL injection, it provides lasting relief for up to six months, helping patients regain mobility and reduce discomfort.
Healthcare providers are crucial in assessing whether Monovisc is the right treatment for each patient. Careful monitoring is essential after administration to manage potential side effects and ensure the treatment delivers the expected benefits.
FAQs
1. What is Monovisc?
Monovisc is a hyaluronic acid injection used to treat knee osteoarthritis. It acts as a lubricant and shock absorber to relieve pain and improve mobility.
2. How often do you need Monovisc injections?
Monovisc is typically given as a single injection, and its effects last up to six months. Based on the patient’s response to the initial treatment, follow-up doses may be considered.
3. What are the side effects of Monovisc?
Common side effects include mild pain, swelling, or warmth at the injection site. More serious side effects, such as infection or severe allergic reactions, are rare but require immediate medical attention.
4. How does Monovisc compare to Synvisc?
Both Monovisc and Synvisc are hyaluronic acid-based injections for knee osteoarthritis, but Monovisc requires only one injection, while Synvisc may require a series of three shots. The effectiveness and side effects may vary between individuals.
References
Osteoarthritis. National Institute on Aging. Published November 15, 2022. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis
Peck, J., Slovek, A., Miro, P., Vij, N., Traube, B., Lee, C., Berger, A. A., Kassem, H., Kaye, A. D., Sherman, W. F., & Abd-Elsayed, A. (2021). A Comprehensive Review of Viscosupplementation in Osteoarthritis of the Knee. Orthopedic reviews, 13(2), 25549. https://doi.org/10.52965/001c.25549
Anika Therapeutics. (n.d.). Monovisc: For healthcare professionals. Retrieved October 8, 2024, from https://monovisc.ca/en/professionals
