Hyaluronic Acid

Generic Details

Generic Name

Hyaluronic Acid

Other Names

  • Hyaluronan
  • Hyaluronate

Drug Class

  • Viscosupplement

Chemical Formula

C28H44N2O23

Molecular Weight

776.6486 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin. It helps increase moisture levels in the skin, reduce dryness, and improve elasticity. In medicine, it is used as a viscosupplement to treat joint pain by injecting it into the affected joint.

Indications

  • Osteoarthritis of the knee
  • Joint pain
  • Wrinkle reduction in cosmetic procedures

Common Dosage Forms

  • Intra-articular injection
  • Topical gel or cream for cosmetic procedures

Typical Dosage

  • 20-30 mg for intra-articular injection in knee osteoarthritis

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not recommended for use in children

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustment may be needed based on individual patient factors

Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions (swelling, pain)
  • Allergic reactions in some individuals

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid or its components
  • Active skin infection at the injection site

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Not enough data available, consult healthcare provider

Drug Interactions

  • No significant drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

  • No specific overdose symptoms reported

Antidote for Overdose

  • N/A

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Absorbed through the skin or joint synovial membrane after topical application or injection
  • Distribution: Distributed mainly in the skin and synovial fluid
  • Metabolism: Metabolized locally by enzymes
  • Excretion: Mainly excreted unchanged in urine

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with a history of allergic reactions
  • Avoid intravascular injection to prevent systemic effects

Warnings

  • Do not use if the solution is discolored or contains particles
  • Follow aseptic techniques for injection procedures

Others

  • Hyaluronic acid may temporarily improve joint function and reduce pain in osteoarthritis.