Hyalgan (Sodium Hyaluronate)

Hyalgan is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis when conservative measures have not provided sufficient relief.

• Knee osteoarthritis in adults.
• Moderate to severe knee pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Patients who are candidates for viscosupplementation therapy.
• Adjunct to physical therapy and analgesics.
• May be considered when intra‑articular corticosteroids are contraindicated.

• Sodium hyaluronate is a high‑molecular‑weight polymer of hyaluronic acid that integrates into the synovial fluid, restoring its viscoelastic properties, improving joint lubrication, and enhancing shock absorption. The restored fluid dynamics can reduce mechanical stress on cartilage, while the molecule may also modulate inflammatory mediators and stimulate endogenous hyaluronic acid synthesis, supporting joint homeostasis.

Adverse reactions to Hyalgan are generally related to the injection procedure and the product itself.

Common

• Injection site pain or tenderness.
• Swelling or effusion of the joint.
• Warmth or erythema at the injection site.
• Transient stiffness.

Serious

• Acute joint infection (septic arthritis).
• Allergic reaction such as urticaria or anaphylaxis.
• Rapidly progressive osteoarthritis.
• Persistent joint effusion requiring drainage.

Before using Hyalgan, certain safety considerations should be reviewed.

• Confirm diagnosis of osteoarthritis and assess severity.
• Avoid use in patients with active joint infection or skin infection over the injection site.
• Use caution in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid preparations.
• Evaluate bleeding risk; avoid in patients on anticoagulants without appropriate monitoring.
• Pregnancy and lactation status unknown; defer use unless benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Not recommended for patients with severe joint deformity or mechanical instability.

Hyalgan may interact with other agents that affect joint health or bleeding risk.

Avoid

• Concurrent intra‑articular corticosteroids or other viscosupplements in the same joint session.
• Systemic anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs without monitoring due to bleeding risk.

Use with caution

• NSAIDs, which may increase local irritation.
• Disease‑modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) pending clinical data.
• Systemic hyaluronidase therapy, which could degrade the injected hyaluronate.