Durolane: Your Guide to the Single Hyaluronic Acid Injection for Osteoarthritis

Durolane by Bioventus is a stabilized hyaluronic acid injection made with NASHA technology, given into the joint to ease osteoarthritis joint pain, most commonly in the knee. It works as a viscosupplement that supplements the synovial fluid, so it improves joint lubrication and cushioning. In this guide we explain what the injection is, how it works, which joints it is used for, and how long it lasts, while stressing that it is a medical procedure given only by a qualified doctor and not for self-use.

What is Durolane?

Durolane is a pre-filled injection of stabilized, non-animal hyaluronic acid (NASHA) at 20 mg/mL. Because it is not derived from an animal source, it is suitable for people with egg or bird allergies. It is classed as a viscosupplement injected into the joint by a qualified doctor, and it aims to relieve symptoms rather than cure the arthritis.

How does Durolane work?

In a joint affected by osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid decreases and loses its viscosity, so friction and pain rise. The injection makes up for this shortfall; the stabilized hyaluronic acid adds a layer of lubrication and cushioning that absorbs shock and improves joint movement. Thanks to the stabilization technology the product stays in the joint longer than non-stabilized types, which allows a single dose instead of several, and gives gradual relief lasting months for many patients.

Which joints is it used for?

This viscosupplement is most often used for knee osteoarthritis, and may also be used in other joints such as the hip, shoulder, ankle and the thumb joint depending on the doctor’s judgment. To learn the injection details and exactly which joints, read Durolane injection for joints, as the doctor decides the suitable joint after examination and imaging.

A single injection

One of the most distinctive things about Durolane is that it is usually given as a single injection in one visit that takes minutes, and the doctor may use ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement inside the joint. This spares the patient repeat visits compared with some viscosupplements that need a weekly series of injections, while keeping similar or better relief depending on the case.

How long does it last?

The effect of the injection usually lasts about six months, and may extend to nine or twelve months in some patients depending on the severity of the arthritis, the joint, lifestyle and weight. Because it eases symptoms and does not rebuild cartilage, relief gradually fades over time, and the injection can be repeated with the doctor’s advice when needed to maintain improved movement and reduced pain.

Who is it for and who needs caution?

Durolane may suit those with mild-to-moderate joint osteoarthritis for whom painkillers and lifestyle changes have not been enough. But it is avoided with infection or inflammation in the joint or the skin at the injection site, hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid or to bacterial proteins, or bleeding disorders. Tell your doctor your medicines, especially blood thinners, and your health condition before the procedure.

When to consult a doctor?

Consult an orthopedic or specialist doctor before Durolane to assess its suitability for your case after examination and imaging, and tell them your medical history, medicines and allergies. If unusual symptoms appear after the injection such as severe pain, increasing swelling, or persistent warmth and redness in the joint, see your doctor right away, as that may need urgent evaluation.

FAQ

Can I inject Durolane myself?
No; it is given into the joint only by a qualified doctor.

What is its component?
Stabilized non-animal hyaluronic acid (NASHA) at 20 mg/mL.

How long does the result last?
Usually about six months, and may extend depending on the case.

Does it cure the arthritis?
No; it eases symptoms and does not rebuild cartilage.

Conclusion

In short, Durolane is a Bioventus stabilized hyaluronic acid injection given into the joint as a single dose to ease osteoarthritis pain and improve movement, its effect lasts about six months, and it is given only by a qualified doctor. For the injection details read Durolane injection, for its results and duration see Durolane results, or view the Durolane product in our store.

This article was reviewed by the No Style Like pharmacy content team. The information is for general awareness and does not replace consulting a qualified doctor. Durolane is a medical product (an intra-articular hyaluronic acid injection) administered only by a qualified doctor into the joint, and is not for self-use or self-injection at home; the specialist decides its suitability and the appropriate joint. It is a viscosupplement that eases symptoms and does not rebuild cartilage nor cure osteoarthritis. It is advised to avoid it with infection or inflammation in the joint or the skin at the injection site, or hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid or any of its components. For more on osteoarthritis see the U.S. NIAMS page on osteoarthritis.