HYALURONATE SODIUM, SODIUM HYALURONATE

Chemistry - Hyaluronate sodium (HS) is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid which is a naturallyoccurring high-viscosity mucopolysaccharide.

Storage, Stability, Compatibility

Store at room temperature or refrigerate depending on theproduct used¯check label; do not freeze. Protect from light.

Pharmacology - HYALURONATE SODIUM, SODIUM HYALURONATE

Hyaluronate sodium (HS) is found naturally in the connective tissue of both manand animals and is identical chemically regardless of species. Highest concentrations foundnaturally are in the synovial fluid, vitreous of the eye and umbilical cord. Surfaces of articularcartilage are covered with a thin layer of a protein-hyaluronate complex, hyaluronate is also found insynovial fluid, and the cartilage matrix. The net effects in joints are: a cushioning effect, reduction ofprotein and cellular influx into the joint and a lubricating effect. Hyaluronate also has a directantiinflammatory effect in joints by scavenging free radicals and suppressing prostaglandins.

Uses, Indications

HS is useful in the treatment of synovitis not associated with severe degenerative joint disease. It may be helpful to treat secondary synovitis in conditions where full thickness cartilage loss exists.
The choice of a high molecular weigh product (MW >1 x 106) versus a low molecular weight one is quite controversial. One author (Nixon 1992) states that "...low molecular weight products (which tend to be less expensive) can be equally efficacious in ameliorating signs of joint disease.
When synovial adhesions and pannus are to be avoided (as in most surgeries for carpal and fetlock fracture fragment removal), higher molecular weight preparations are recommended because they inhibit proliferation of synovial fibroblasts."

Pharmacokinetics - HYALURONATE SODIUM, SODIUM HYALURONATE

No specific information located.

Contraindications, Precautions, Reproductive Safety

No contraindications to HS's use are noted on the label. HS should not be used as a substitute for adequate diagnosis; radiographic examinations should be performed to rule out serious fractures. Do not perform intra-articular injections through skin that has been recently fired or blistered, or that has excessive scurf and counterirritants on it.
While HS would unlikely cause problems, safe use in breeding animals has not been established and most manufacturers caution against its use in these animals.

Adverse Effects, Warnings

Some patients may develop local reactions manifested by heat, swelling and/or effusion. Effects generally subside within 24-48 hours; some animals may requireup to 96 hours for resolution. No treatment for this effect is recommended. When used incombination with other drugs, incidence of flares may actually be higher. No systemic adverseeffects have been noted.

Overdosage, Acute Toxicity

Acute toxicology studies performed in horses have demonstrated nosystemic toxicity associated with overdoses.
Drug Interactions/Laboratory Considerations - None noted.