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What is Orthovisc
 Orthovisc
is similar to synovial fluid, a substance that occurs naturally
in the joints. Synovial fluid acts as a lubricant and shock
absorber.
Orthovisc
is injected into the knee joints for the treatment of pain
in individuals with osteoarthritis.
Orthovisc
may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.
General medical information about Orthovisc
Talk to your doctor before using Orthovisc if you
have an allergy to birds or bird products, feathers, or
chicken or egg products.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before
using Orthovisc
Talk to your doctor before using Orthovisc if you
have an allergy to birds or bird products, feathers, or
chicken or egg products.
Orthovisc should not be
used if there is an infection or skin disease at the site
of injection.
It is not known whether Orthovisc will
be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Orthovisc without
first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could
become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known
whether Orthovisc will be harmful to a nursing baby. Do
not use Orthovisc without first talking to your doctor if
you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should you use Orthovisc Orthovisc is administered by a healthcare professional
as an intra-articular (into the joint) injection.
Temporary pain or swelling of the affected joint may occur
after injection of Orthovisc.
Avoid strenuous activity
or prolonged (longer than one hour) weight-bearing activity
such as jogging, tennis, lifting weights, or standing for
48 hours following an injection, unless otherwise directed
by your doctor.
If you miss a dose: Contact your doctor if a dose of Orthovisc is missed.
What happens if you overdose: An overdose of Orthovisc is unlikely to threaten
life. Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention
if an overdose of Orthovisc is suspected.
What should you avoid while using Orthovisc Avoid strenuous activity or prolonged (longer than
one hour) weight-bearing activity such as jogging, tennis,
lifting weights, or standing for 48 hours following an injection,
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Possible side effects of Orthovisc Notify your doctor immediately if you experience
a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing;
closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or
face; or hives) to Orthovisc.
Other less serious
side effects may also occur. Talk to your doctor if you
experience
- temporary pain or swelling of the affected
joint;
- rash or bruising at the injection site;
or
- an overall achy feeling.
Side effects
other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that
is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Orthovisc
It
is not known whether other medications will interact with
Orthovisc. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking
any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including
vitamins, minerals, and herbal products during treatment with
Orthovisc. |
