Helo

 20 mg/2 ml Intra-articular Injection
Chemist Laboratories Ltd.
2 ml pre-filled syringe: ৳ 1,200.00
Indications
  • Ophthalmic indications:
    • Treatment of dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
    • Corneal epithelial defects and postoperative ocular surface healing (e.g., post-cataract or refractive surgery)
    • Conjunctivitis and other ocular surface disorders requiring lubrication
  • Intra-articular indications:
    • Symptomatic management of osteoarthritis of the knee and other joints
    • Viscosupplementation to restore joint fluid properties and improve mobility
  • Topical/dermatological indications:
    • Wound healing support, including burns and ulcers
    • Skin hydration and repair in dermatologic conditions
  • Cosmetic indications:
    • Soft tissue augmentation and wrinkle correction via dermal injection
Dosage & Administration
  • Ophthalmic use:
    • Instill 1 to 6 drops daily or as prescribed, depending on severity
    • Apply after surgery as directed by the ophthalmologist, often several times daily
  • Intra-articular injection:
    • Typically 20 mg per joint (2 mL), injected once weekly for 3 to 5 weeks
    • Repeat courses may be administered after 6 months depending on clinical response
    • Injection performed by healthcare professional under sterile conditions
  • Topical application:
    • Apply directly to affected skin or wound area 1 to 3 times daily
  • Cosmetic injection:
    • Dose individualized; administered by trained clinicians with follow-up treatments every 6–12 months
  • Special populations:
    • No dose adjustments generally needed for elderly or patients with renal/hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Sodium hyaluronate is a high molecular weight polysaccharide naturally present in connective tissues and synovial fluid. It acts by increasing the viscosity and elasticity of fluids in joints and eyes. In joints, it restores synovial fluid’s lubricating and shock-absorbing properties, reducing pain and improving function. In the eye, it forms a protective, moisturizing layer that shields and facilitates healing of the ocular surface. Additionally, sodium hyaluronate supports tissue repair by modulating inflammatory responses and stimulating extracellular matrix production.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption after topical, intra-articular, or ophthalmic administration
  • Distribution: Confined largely to the local site of application
  • Metabolism: Broken down enzymatically by hyaluronidases into smaller sugar molecules
  • Half-life: Varies by formulation and site; ocular residence time is hours, intra-articular residence ranges from days to weeks
  • Excretion: Metabolites are cleared via normal metabolic pathways; no significant renal excretion of intact compound
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy: No assigned FDA category; minimal systemic exposure suggests low risk. Use only if clearly indicated and after risk-benefit evaluation.
  • Lactation: Limited data; minimal absorption and systemic exposure suggest low risk to breastfeeding infants. Use with caution.
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary Class: Viscoelastic agent / Tissue lubricant
  • Subclass: Glycosaminoglycan / Viscosupplement
Contraindications
  • Hypersensitivity to sodium hyaluronate or formulation excipients
  • Active infection or inflammation at the site of administration (e.g., infected joint or eye)
  • Intra-articular injection contraindicated in patients with skin diseases near the injection site
  • Caution in bleeding disorders or anticoagulated patients due to injection-related bleeding risk
Warnings & Precautions
  • Use aseptic technique during injections to avoid infections
  • Monitor for allergic or hypersensitivity reactions
  • Intra-articular injections may cause transient joint swelling or pain
  • Ophthalmic use may cause temporary blurred vision or eye irritation
  • Avoid use in infected or inflamed areas
  • Not intended for systemic administration
Side Effects
  • Ophthalmic: Mild irritation, transient blurred vision, burning sensation
  • Intra-articular: Local pain, swelling, redness, joint effusion (usually transient)
  • Topical: Mild skin redness or irritation
  • Rare: Allergic reactions including rash, itching, and anaphylaxis
Drug Interactions
  • No clinically significant drug interactions reported
  • Safe to use with other topical or intra-articular agents as advised by clinicians
  • Not metabolized by CYP450 enzymes; no known enzyme interactions
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • Osteoarthritis guidelines endorse sodium hyaluronate injections as a treatment option when standard therapies fail
  • Ophthalmology guidelines increasingly recommend sodium hyaluronate for moderate to severe dry eye disease
  • Emphasis on strict aseptic techniques to reduce infection risks
  • Development of newer high-molecular-weight formulations offering longer efficacy
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), protect from freezing and excessive heat
  • Ophthalmic products should be protected from light and contamination; do not touch the dropper tip
  • Injectable forms must be stored according to manufacturer’s instructions and used before expiration
  • Keep all products out of reach of children