Synvisc and intra-articular injections Supartz are two different brands of viscosupplementation treatments used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. Viscosupplementation is the administration of hyaluronic acid-based viscoelastic gel via injection to joints affected by osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) restores lubrication and prevents further joint degradation by replenishing and increasing the production of the native hyaluronic acid in the body. This stimulates the synovial fluid, which is responsible for lubrication, mobility, and shock absorption of the joints.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the joints, particularly in the knee. This is caused by the gradual breakdown of the joint cartilage due to repetitive movements, stress, and wear and tear. The cartilage between the joints eventually wears out which may cause the bones to come in contact with each other. The subsequent rubbing against one another causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. The most susceptible to developing osteoarthritis are the elderly and select individuals who have a history of joint injuries. As a progressive, degenerative medical condition, knee osteoarthritis has no cure and its symptoms deteriorate over time. Osteoarthritis treatments are aimed at managing the symptoms, reducing pain and discomfort, and boosting joint mobility.

Viscosupplement treatments are offered to patients when conservative treatments for osteoarthritis such as physical therapy, lifestyle modification, and pain medications fail to produce any tangible results.

Synvisc vs Supartz

Orthopedic injections Synvisc and Supartz are two of the most widely used viscosupplement medications for osteoarthritis. Clinical studies have proven that both Synvisc and Supartz are equally effective at alleviating joint pain.

Synvisc and Supartz are made up of ingredients derived from Hyaluronic acid, which is a compound that lubricates and improves the joints’ range of motion. Both these viscosupplements are injected into the synovial space in the joints. It is extremely important that any excess fluids in the knee joints are removed.

The side effects of Synvisc and Supartz are similar: itching, rash, hives, swelling of the face, and temporary pain or swelling at the injection site.  Both of these medications last for approximately 6 months.

While Synvisc and Supartz are two very similar medications, here are their notable differences:

Chemical Formulation

Synvisc (Hylan G-F 20) contains 80% Hylan A and 20% Hylan B polymers, achieved through highly cross-linking hyaluronan to produce a sterile, elastoviscous fluid. Supartz is a pure, dense, unmodified sodium hyaluronate solution.

Treatment Dose and Administration

Synvisc is administered once weekly in three 2 mL injections, while Supartz is injected 3 – 5 times a week at 2.5 mL each. Synvisc is also available in a single-injection 6mL variation, called Synvisc One.

Main Takeaway

Synvisc and Supartz have exhibited parallel effectivity over the decades in alleviating the pain and discomfort that comes with knee osteoarthritis.

Synvisc reviews from loyal and new patients alike reveal its easy access and effectivity at managing pain levels associated with their medical condition. Supartz reviews show patients’ progress from first to recent visits narrating obvious changes in their mobility and comfort.

Medica Depot offers Synvisc, Synvisc One, and Supartz at the most reasonable price in the market. Check out the selection here.