Frequently Asked Questions

Is SYNVISC® right for you? Only your doctor can tell you that. But the following list may answer some of your questions.

What is SYNVISC?

SYNVISC is a type of treatment called a viscosupplement. It lubricates and cushions your knee joint and relieves pain, which can allow you to move more freely for up to 6 months.

Will SYNVISC cure my OA of the knee?

There is no cure for OA. But successful treatment with SYNVISC can reduce or relieve your knee pain for up to 6 months, potentially increasing your mobility and comfort. Learn more

How does SYNVISC work?

SYNVISC supplements your knee fluid with a natural substance that’s similar to normal, healthy joint fluid. It relieves pain and gives your knee the shock absorption that helps you move more freely and resume a more active lifestyle. Learn more

How is SYNVISC given?

SYNVISC is injected directly into your knee joint 3 times, 1 week apart, over a 15-day period. You will have to receive the full course of 3 injections to get the maximum benefit. Learn more

Are there side effects?

Treatment with SYNVISC is generally well tolerated. Side effects from SYNVISC are infrequent. In studies, about 7% of patients experience pain, swelling and/or fluid buildup around the knee.1 Other side effects, such as rash, have been reported rarely. View Important Patient Information and Complete Prescribing Information for SYNVISC (PDF, 146K).

Is SYNVISC the same as steroid injections?

No, SYNVISC is not a steroid. Both steroids and SYNVISC are given by injection, but SYNVISC is made from a substance that is similar to normal, healthy joint fluid and acts like a cushion for the joint. Steroids can reduce swelling and inflammation, but do not lubricate the joint space. The benefits of treatment with Synvisc have also been shown to last longer than those for treatment with a steroid.2

Will SYNVISC help at any stage of OA?

SYNVISC provides pain relief for patients across all stages of OA, from mild to severe. In a clinical study of patients with OA of the knee ranging from Grade 1 (mild) to Grade 4 (severe), patients in every category were judged to be better or much better after treatment with SYNVISC.3

Can both my knees be treated with SYNVISC?

Yes. You can receive treatment in both knees at the same time, or at different times. Ask your doctor what is best for you.

Can I get more than one course of treatment with SYNVISC?

Yes. After your first course of treatment, keep track of your symptoms. When your OA side effects such as pain and stiffness start to return, talk to your doctor about another course of SYNVISC.

Is SYNVISC covered by insurance?

SYNVISC treatment is eligible for reimbursement by Medicare and most insurance plans. Your exact benefits will vary according to your specific plan. For specific questions, please contact the SYNVISC Reimbursement Hotline at 1-800-982-8292 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. (EST), Monday through Friday.

If I'm taking oral medication to treat OA, can I still get SYNVISC?

Yes, a recent medical study has shown that SYNVISC can potentially double the pain relief for people with OA of the knee when added to standard treatments, such as oral painkillers, diet and exercise.*4

How do I find a doctor who provides SYNVISC?

SYNVISC is usually provided by a specialist, such as an orthopaedic surgeon or rheumatologist. Ask your current doctor about SYNVISC to see what he or she recommends or find a doctor in your area.

References

1 Kemper F, Gebhardt U, Meng T, Murray C. Tolerability and short-term effectiveness of hylan G-F 20 in 4,253 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in clinical practice. Curr Med Res Opin.2005;21:1261-1269.

2 Caborn D, Rush J, Lanzer W, Parenti D, Murray C, on behalf of the Synvisc 901 Study Group. A randomized, single-blind comparison of the efficacy and tolerability of hylan G-F 20 and triamcinolone hexacetonide in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. J Rheumatol.2004; 31:333-343.
3 Lussier A., et al, J Rheumatol. 1996; 23:1579-1585

4 Raynauld JP, Torrance GW, Band PA, et al. A prospective, randomized, pragmatic, health outcomes trial evaluating the incorporation of hylan G-F 20 into the treatment paradigm for patients with knee osteoarthritis (Part 1 of 2): clinical results. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. Jul 2002;10(7):506-517.

*Treatment with SYNVISC may not eliminate the need for other OA medications.