Durolane (Hyaluronic acid, stabilized) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Durolane? 

Durolane, with the generic name sodium hyaluronate, is a single-injection indicated to treat the pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee among patients who did not adequately respond to simple analgesic or conservative therapy. It acts as both a lubricant and a shock absorber in the knee joint. 

This is available in Durolane 60 mg/3 mL single-injection forms. 

How does Durolane work? 

In OA, sodium hyaluronate in the joints is reduced. It is a substance that is abundant in joints, eyes, and skin. It acts as a cushioning fluid in the joints and also functions as a lubricant and shock absorber. This drug is a clear, thick, translucent gel containing sodium hyaluronate that has been carefully refined, stabilized, and is not generated from animals. This product is biosynthesized using bacterial fermentation. By administering this injection, long-lasting pain relief on the knees is provided. 

How to use Durolane

Before having this medication administered, you must fully understand all the drug information and precautions on this specific treatment. If you need further medical advice regarding your condition or have queries on how this medication will be administered, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Note that this prescription medication can only be administered by a healthcare provider. The healthcare provider will inject local anesthesia prior to your Durolane injection to minimize discomfort during the procedure. If your knee joint is swollen with excess fluid, it may be necessary to withdraw the fluid through a needle to relieve pressure. 

An imaging study may be used to guide the healthcare professional in injecting this medication to the affected area. After the injection, a small bandage or dressing will be placed over the injection site. Then, ice will be applied to the area, and you will be required to rest in the recovery area for a while to prevent adverse reactions. It is also necessary to continue applying ice once you get home to avoid pain and swelling. 

Your dosage and frequency will depend on various factors, such as your overall medical condition and response to therapy. Each Durolane dosage can provide pain relief for up to six months. 

Durolane Side Effects 

Common side effects: 

• mild pain, swelling, and warmth on the injection site
• joint pain
• muscle discomfort
• muscle stiffness headache 

For the most part, the side effects brought about by this medication are mild and temporary. If the adverse reactions get worse or do not improve, you should contact your doctor or any healthcare professional. You should also immediately report severe side effects, such as: 

• signs of infection (fever, chills, inflammation on the site)
• bleeding
• severe itching
• blisters or discoloration around the area 

This is not a full or complete list of the side effects. 

Precautions 

Before you start your therapy, you should disclose your full medical history to your physician. This should include any skin disease and infections, particularly joint infections. Certain conditions may significantly impact how your body will respond to this treatment. Further, you should discuss all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are using because of the possible drug interactions with this injection. 

Always watch out for an allergic reaction while on this therapy. Avoid this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to hyaluronic acid or any inactive ingredients that every single injection may contain. Call your local emergency line once you experience signs of hypersensitivity, such as hives, skin rashes, swelling of the face, severe dizziness, and breathing difficulty. 

Do not do any strenuous physical tasks or activities for at least 48 hours after this medication has been administered. Also, avoid standing for an extended period of time or any weight-bearing activities. Discuss with your healthcare provider your recovery after Durolane injection. 

There are still no definitive clinical trials to tell whether this intra-articular medication could cause harm to unborn children and nursing infants. Thus, pregnant and breastfeeding moms must use this treatment only if extremely necessary. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Durolane safe? 

Yes, this treatment is proven safe and effective in treating pain caused by osteoarthritis. 

What is the difference between Durolane and Synvisc? 

On Durolane vs Synvisc, it is thought that the former could provide greater pain reduction than the latter. 

What is the difference between Durolane and Euflexxa? 

On Durolane vs Euflexxa, the former comes in a single injection while the latter is a series of 3 injections given every three weeks. 

What is the difference between Monovisc and Durolane? 

On Monovisc vs Durolane, the latter usually requires more than one injection. 

How much does Durolane cost? 

You may check for the price of this single injection from this page.