Generic name: hylan G-F 20 [ HI-lan-G-F-20 ]
Brand names: Synvisc, Synvisc One
Drug class: Viscosupplementation agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 21, 2023.

What is Synvisc?

Synvisc is similar to the fluid that surrounds the joints in your body. This fluid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joints.

Synvisc is used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Synvisc is usually given after other arthritis medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.

Warnings

You should not receive Synvisc if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.

Before you receive a Synvisc injection, tell your doctor if you have blood clots or circulation problems in your legs, or an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products.

For at least 48 hours after your injection, avoid jogging, strenuous activity, high-impact sports, or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection.

Before receiving this medicine

You should not receive Synvisc if you are allergic to hylan G-F 20, or if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.

To make sure Synvisc is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• blood clots or circulation problems in your legs; or

• an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products.

It is not known whether Synvisc will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether hylan G-F 20 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Synvisc is generally not used in anyone younger than 21 years old.

How is Synvisc given?

Synvisc is injected directly into your knee joint. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

The Synvisc brand of hylan G-F 20 is usually given once every week until you have received 3 injections. The Synvisc-One brand of this medicine is given only once. Your doctor will determine how many injections you should receive.

To prevent pain and swelling, your doctor may recommend resting your knee or applying ice for a short time after your injection.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Osteoarthritis:

Inject 2 mL intra-articularly into the knee once a week for 3 weeks.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your Synvisc injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving Synvisc?

For at least 48 hours after your injection, avoid jogging, strenuous activity, or high-impact sports such as soccer or tennis. Also avoid weight-bearing activity or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time. Ask your doctor how long to wait before you resume these activities.

Synvisc side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Synvisc: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection.

Common Synvisc side effects may include:

• warmth, redness, pain, stiffness, swelling, or puffiness where the medicine was injected;

• muscle pain, trouble walking;

• fever, chills, nausea;

• prickly feeling in your skin;

• headache, dizziness; or

• itching or skin irritation around the knee.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Synvisc?

Other drugs may interact with hylan G-F 20, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

• Your doctor can provide more information about Synvisc.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Synvisc only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01.