Indications
Gelsyn-3 is a medication used to treat pain in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee in patients who have not responded adequately to other medication and therapy options. It is a next-generation hyaluronic acid (HA) that provides long-lasting relief of knee pain.
Gelsyn-3 is injected into the knee joint and acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, protecting the joint and reducing pain and inflammation. It is one of several hyaluronic acid derivatives available for intra-articular injection to treat knee pain caused by OA, along with other medications such as DUROLANE, SUPARTZ FX, and Euflexxa.
Use and Dosage
To use the prefilled syringe of Gelsyn-3, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Check the syringe for any defects or damage before using it.
- Prepare the injection site by cleaning the skin with an antiseptic solution.
- Use the syringe to inject the full contents of the prefilled syringe into the knee joint.
- Discard the prefilled syringe and any unused portion of the medication properly, according to your healthcare provider's instructions.
- Your healthcare provider may advise you to take it easy for a short time after the injection and may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort.
Always follow your doctor's instructions and never self-administer Gelsyn-3 without consulting a healthcare professional first.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Gelsyn-3 (Sodium Hyaluronate):
- Back pain
- Bruising
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Numbness or tingly feeling
- Pain
- Puffiness where the medicine was injected
- Redness
- Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat
- Stiffness
- Stomach pain
- Swelling in your hands or feet
- Trouble walking
- Warmth
Serious Side Effects of Gelsyn-3 (Sodium Hyaluronate):
- Severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection
Forms and Strength
Gelsyn-3 (Sodium Hyaluronate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Gelsyn-3: Prefilled Syringe
- 16.8mg/2mL
Cautions
- Gelsyn-3 should be used with caution when there is evidence of lymphatic or venous insufficiency since the safety of use under this condition has not been established.
- Patients with hypersensitivity to sodium hyaluronate should not receive Gelsyn-3.
- Avoid injecting Gelsyn-3 into an infected or swollen joint, as this may lead to complications.
- Some patients may experience local reactions at the injection site, such as pain, swelling, or warmth. If these reactions persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought.
- Gelsyn-3 should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to avian proteins, feathers, or egg products, as it is derived from avian sources. However, consult with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of any medication before starting treatment.
- Gelsyn-3 has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Patients with knee joint infections, larger effusions, or advanced stages of OA may not be good candidates for Gelsyn-3 therapy.
- Gelsyn-3 has been reported to cause a transient increase in local inflammation in some patients, which can exacerbate knee pain and symptoms.
- Patients with a history of bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants should exercise caution when receiving Gelsyn-3 injections to avoid increased bleeding or hematoma formation at the injection site. Inform your doctor of any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking before receiving Gelsyn-3 or any other treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who should not receive Gelsyn-3 injections?
Gelsyn-3 should not be used in patients who have a hypersensitivity to sodium hyaluronate or avian products, have an active knee joint infection, or have a bleeding disorder.
Is Gelsyn-3 safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Gelsyn-3 has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How long does the Gelsyn-3 treatment last?
The Gelsyn-3 treatment typically consists of 3 weekly injections into the knee joint and can provide pain relief for up to 6 months.
How many injections is Gelsyn-3?
Administered as a series of 3 injections directly into the knee (one every 7 days), Gelsyn-3 works to increase the levels of healthy hyaluronic acid in the affected joint.
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