An individual getting their knee examined.

Monovisc has an average rating of 5.9 out of 10 stars from treated patients. Among these users, 50% reported a positive experience with the viscosupplement, while 37% expressed dissatisfaction. This highlights that more individuals found satisfaction with the solution than those who did not.

Viscosupplementation, such as the Monovisc knee injection, can temporarily relieve individuals suffering from symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA). To maximize the benefits and efficacy of this treatment, medical professionals should strictly adhere to the prescribed treatment protocols and Monovisc prescribing information.

This article will provide Monovisc prescribing information, indications, contraindications, dosing regimen, patient selection, and potential risks.

Key Takeaways

  • Monovisc is indicated for treating pain in knee osteoarthritis (OA) for patients who have not responded to first-line therapies.
  • Monovisc knee injections only require a single 4 mL injection therapy administered intra-articularly into the affected knee joint.
  • Providers should also utilize standard intra-articular injection site preparation and precautions.
  • Individuals must adhere to the provider’s post-treatment care instructions for optimal outcomes and recovery after Monovisc knee injections.

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Indications and Contraindications

A medical professional administering a knee injection.

Monovisc knee injection falls under the category of viscosupplementation, which involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the affected joint. This injectable has received the approval of the US Food and Drug Administration, and it is indicated for treating pain in knee osteoarthritis (OA). It can be prescribed for patients who have not responded to first-line therapies.

Moreover, medical professionals must also understand the contraindications to using Monovisc. This can help them assess patients meticulously and avoid using Monovisc knee injections when a specific contraindication is present.

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to hyaluronate preparations.
  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to gram-positive bacterial proteins.
  • Patients with infections or skin diseases in the area of the injection site or joint.
  • Patients with known systemic bleeding disorders.

When comparing Monovisc vs Orthovisc or other viscosupplements, it’s worth noting that Monovisc stands out due to its convenience and the quick procedure. Monovisc knee injections only require a single injection therapy administered intra-articularly into the affected knee joint.

The recommended Monovisc dosage is 4 mL, equivalent to other viscosupplement. Medical professionals must use a strict aseptic injection technique during the application of Monovisc knee injection. Patients should only seek trained medical professionals to deliver solutions to the knee joint and should inject Monovisc with the accepted injection techniques.

Patient Selection and Preparation

A consultation between a doctor and patient.

Monovisc knee injection is suitable for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) who have not found relief with conservative non-pharmacologic therapy or simple analgesics. It’s preferably administered to adults aged 35 and above and those struggling with knee OA symptoms.

Medical professionals must have received proper training before administering Monovisc knee injections. As a pre-injection preparation, providers must remove joint effusion from the knee joint and thoroughly cleanse the site before injecting Monovisc. They should also utilize standard intra-articular injection site preparation and precautions.

Post-Injection Care

Individuals must adhere to the provider’s post-treatment care instructions for optimal outcomes and safe recovery after Monovisc knee injections. Medical professionals know the best tips for ensuring patient safety, satisfaction, and prolonged Monoivisc knee injection results.

  • Activity Restrictions: Patients should avoid strenuous activities, such as jogging or heavy lifting, for at least 48 hours. Individuals must only do light activities, such as walking.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Medical professionals should recommend scheduling regular follow-up appointments to monitor and evaluate the treatment’s effectiveness and any occurrence of adverse reactions. This allows optimal treatment outcomes and addresses concerns immediately.

Potential Side Effects and Management

Despite the US FDA approval for this single-injection therapy, providers must discuss the potential Monovisc side effects that may occur after treatment. These symptoms are often temporary and may resolve within a few days post-injection. However, if they persist, patients must seek immediate medical attention. According to the Patient Information, here are the common Monovisc side effects:

  • Transient Pain
  • Swelling
  • Heat
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Bruising 
  • Redness

These reactions are typically mild and transient and may subside over time. Additionally, medical professionals may suggest applying an ice compress to the injection site to manage side effects. They may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. Patients may also rest the affected joint and avoid heavy activities to minimize the symptoms.

Clinical Guidelines and Expert Recommendations

A medical professional discussing the knee area.

While some medical organizations do not recommend viscosupplementation due to inconclusive evidence in treating knee osteoarthritis symptoms, several studies and trials still highlight its safety and efficacy. With this, medical professionals must strictly adhere to the US FDA instructions and Monovisc’s treatment protocols to ensure patient suitability and safety before proceeding with Monovisc knee injections. 

Furthermore, a clinical study comparing Monovisc vs Orthovisc indicates that Monovisc is just as effective as three injections of Orthovisc at all threshold levels. Results also revealed that Monovisc is non-inferior to Orthovisc regarding changes in WOMAC Pain Score, Pain on Standing Score, Investigator Global Score, and Patient Global Score.

Providers may find Monovisc knee injections beneficial for those with mild to moderate knee OA. A thorough assessment must be done to ensure they can determine if they’ll pursue the minimally invasive treatment or an alternative to more invasive procedures.

Educating Patients on Proper Usage

Providers should educate patients on the importance of adhering to post-injection care guidelines, such as activity restrictions and not soaking the injection site for 24 hours. They should also inform them about potential Monovisc side effects and when to seek medical advice.

Ensure patients understand the correct usage of Monovisc, including the need for follow-up appointments to monitor treatment efficacy and address any adverse reactions. Emphasize the importance of reporting any unusual symptoms promptly to their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Monovisc is a viscosupplement indicated for treating knee osteoarthritis (OA) in patients who have not responded to conservative therapies or simple analgesics. Its single 4 mL intra-articular injection offers a convenient and quick procedure for patients seeking relief from symptomatic knee OA.

The Monovisc prescribing information emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to treatment protocols and post-treatment care instructions to maximize the benefits and minimize potential risks associated with the treatment. Medical professionals are critical in patient selection, preparation, and post-injection care to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and patient safety.

FAQs

1. What is Monovisc used for?

Monovisc is indicated for treating pain in knee osteoarthritis (OA) for patients who have not responded to first-line therapies. The US Food and Drug Administration also highlighted this indication.

2. How is Monovisc administered?

Monovisc knee injections only require a single 4 mL injection therapy administered intra-articularly into the affected knee joint. Only medical professionals must administer this viscosupplement.

3.  What are the potential Monovisc side effects?

Common Monovisc side effects may include transient pain, swelling, heat, rash, itching, bruising, and redness. These reactions are typically mild and transient and may subside over time.

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References

  1. Monovisc Reviews & Ratings. (2020). Drugs.com; Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/comments/hyaluronan/monovisc.html
  2. INFORMATION FOR PRESCRIBERS  MONOVISCTM High Molecular Weight Hyaluronan. (n.d.). Accessdata.fda.gov. Retrieved August 7, 2024, from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf9/P090031c.pdf