What is hyaluronate injectable?
Hyaluronate injectable (brand names Hyalovet®, Legend®, others) is an injectable joint medication used to treat synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining) in horses and dogs. It is used in cases of non-infectious synovitis and where joint disease is not severe.
Its use is off label (extra label) in species other than horses. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine.
“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet hyaluronate injectable?
- Hyaluronate injectable comes in injectable form. Single-use and multi-dose vials are available.
- Injections are given directly into the joint space (intra-articular).
- Injections into the joint are given by your veterinary team.
- Follow your veterinarian’s post-injection care instructions.
- Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
This medication should start to take effect within 1 to 2 hours, although outward effects may not be immediately noticeable.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects from hyaluronate injectable?
Hyaluronate injectable may cause the following side effects:
- Mild effusion or swelling at site of application
- Transient lameness/difficulty moving
- Pain at injection site
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving hyaluronate injectable and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Signs of infection/sepsis (e.g., fever, swelling, heat at joint, redness)
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. The effects of this medication may last several days to weeks.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE this medication in:
- Animals that are allergic to any component
- Animals with a joint infection and/or broken bone in the affected limb
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Animals that are pregnant or nursing
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
No drug interactions have been reported for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store hyaluronate injectable?
- Store the medication according to manufacturer’s label directions.
- Protect from freezing.
- Discard any unused portions according to manufacturer’s directions.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
