Hyvisc® (hyaluronate sodium) is an injectable formulation for the treatment of joint dysfunction in horses due to non-infectious synovitis associated with equine osteoarthritis.

Restoring Synovial Fluid
Synovial fluid changes when synovitis or joint inflammation occurs. The synovial membrane becomes inflamed and releases destructive enzymes. The fluid becomes thin and watery, losing its lubricating and cushioning effect.

Experience shows that one of the best methods for restoring the normal characteristics of synovial fluid and healing inflamed joint tissue in horses is to inject hyaluronate sodium directly into the joint. Synovial fluid viscosity increases markedly after a single 2 milliliter (mL) injection of Hyvisc. The mechanism of action by which exogenous hyaluronate sodium exerts its therapeutic effect in arthritic joints is not known at this time.

Hyvisc maintains elasticity and lubrication properties similar to naturally occurring synovial fluid. Derived from natural sources, it is clear, colorless, extremely pure, highly viscous and has a high molecular weight.

Chemical Composition
Hyvisc is contained in a 5 mL disposable syringe as a single 2 mL dose. Chemically, hyaluronic acid (HA) is a high molecular weight mucopolysaccharide composed of repeating disaccharide units, each unit consisting of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. Each milliliter of Hyvisc injections contains 11 milligrams (mg) hyaluronate sodium, 8.47 mg of sodium chloride, USP, in sterile water for injection, USP q.s.

Recommended Dosage
The recommended dose of Hyvisc is 2 mL given to horses intra-articularly in small and medium sized-joints (carpal, fetlock). In larger joints (hock), the dosage is 4 mL. Treatment may be repeated at weekly intervals for a total of three treatments. As with any intra-articular injection, aseptic technique is used.

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.



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