Viscosupplementation agents 

Viscosupplementation agents are preparations that have hyaluronic acid, which is injected into the knee joint to relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis. Joints affected by osteoarthritis have less hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in the synovial fluid. Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and allows bones to move smoothly without rubbing against each other. Viscosupplementation agents also improve joint movement.

Current treatment options include Hylan g-f-20, Sodium Hyaluronate preparations (Suparts Fx, Euflexxa, Gelsyn-3, Durolane, Hyalgen), single-use agents (Gel-One, Synvisc-One, Monovisc), and Hyaluronan (Orthovisc, Monovisc, Hymovic). They share a common safety profile, and all have evidence supporting their efficacy.

Viscosupplements such as Euflexxa, Gel‐One, GenVisc 850, Hyalgan, Hymovis, Monovisc, Orthovisc, Supartz FX, Synvisc, Synvisc‐One, and TriVisc are indicated for the treatment of pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee who have failed to respond to conservative nonpharmacologic therapy with simple analgesics.

Viscosupplements are gel-like substances, hyaluronates, that mimic the properties of naturally occurring joint fluid. Currently, there are five FDA approved hyaluronates which include: Hyalgan, Supartz, Synvisc, Euflexxa, and Orthovisc. These hyaluronates are injected into the joint.