Is Euflexxa Injection a Steroid?

Living with chronic knee pain can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it seems like nothing works to relieve symptoms. Many people search for a solution that goes beyond a temporary solution, something that addresses the root of the problem and doesn’t come with a long list of side effects. That’s where Euflexxa injections come in.

While some might assume it’s just another steroid treatment, the truth is quite different. So is Euflexxa a steroid? No, it’s a non-surgical option used to treat the joint pain.

What Is Euflexxa?

Euflexxa is an injectable treatment designed to alleviate knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. It’s hyaluronic acid-based and acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the knee joints. Euflexxa is legally approved by health authorities like the FDA in the U.S., making it a trusted option for medical professionals.

The treatment is typically used when other medications, such as painkillers or physical therapy, haven’t found adequate relief.

Euflexxa injection is also safe, with clinical research backing its effectiveness in providing help with joint pain. Many doctors prescribe it for patients who are looking for non-surgical solutions to their chronic knee discomfort.

How Does Euflexxa Work?

Euflexxa is a viscosupplement, which means it supplements the natural synovial fluid in the joints. As people age, or in cases of knee osteoarthritis, the amount of synovial fluid decreases, leading to increased friction between the bones in the knee joint. This friction causes pain, stiffness, and knee infection.

Euflexxa works by introducing hyaluronic acid, a substance with a natural production in the body. This acid helps to restore the viscosity and elasticity of the knee joint fluid, acting as a lubricant and shock absorption.

It reduces pain by allowing the bones to move more smoothly and with less friction. Over time, this can lead to improved joint function like mobility and less discomfort during physical activity.

Key Differences Between Euflexxa and Steroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections, such as cortisone shots, work by reducing inflammation in the knee. While steroids can reduce pain quickly, their effects are often temporary. They do not address the root cause of the affected joint and, over time, may weaken the cartilage.

In contrast, Euflexxa focuses on replenishing joint fluid and providing a cushioning effect. It doesn’t target inflammation directly but aims to improve the overall health by mimicking the natural fluid in the knee.

This means that while it may take a little longer to notice the full benefits, it can provide a longer-lasting solution. Additionally, Euflexxa is more suitable for long-term use, while steroid injections are often limited due to their serious side effects.

Euflexxa Dosage

The standard dosage is typically one Euflexxa injection per week for three weeks. Each is injected directly into the knee joints by a healthcare professional (with or without the local anesthetic). This dosage schedule allows the hyaluronic acid to build up in the joint, improving the lubrication and cushioning effect over time.

It’s important to avoid combining Euflexxa with other injectable medications, especially blood thinners, as they may increase the risk of complications during treatment. Always consult a doctor before starting these intra-articular injections if you’re taking any medications that can cause blood clots formation or if you have concerns about drug interactions.

Who Should Consider Euflexxa Injections?

Euflexxa is usually prescribed for people with knee osteoarthritis. This includes individuals who experience chronic knee pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or exercising.

It’s particularly beneficial for patients who have tried other treatments, like painkillers, physical therapy, or steroid injections, but haven’t found long-term relief.

Doctors also recommend Euflexxa for patients who are looking to avoid knee surgery or want a non-invasive way to manage their pain. It’s especially suited for those who need a solution that doesn’t involve steroids or more aggressive interventions.

Potential Benefits of Euflexxa for Joint Health

Euflexxa provides multiple benefits to those suffering from knee osteoarthritis:

• Improved heavy lifting;
• Reduced pain;
• Better mobility;
• Long-lasting relief.

Common side effects of Euflexxa Injections

While Euflexxa is generally safe, like any medical treatment, it can cause some troubles. They include:

• Swelling around the injection site;
• Mild pain or discomfort;
• Severe headache;
• Redness or warmth around the joint space.

Allergic reactions are not quite typical for this medication, but be attentive to such symptoms like swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or difficulties with breathing. Though, the overall negative effects are typically short-term and resolve on their own.

Managing Common Side Effects

In most cases, adverse effects from Euflexxa are mild and temporary. To manage these symptoms, applying an ice pack to the knee can help reduce swelling and pain. Avoiding strenuous activities for a few days after the injection also helps.

If unfavorable consequences persist or worsen (like serious skin infection, allergic reaction or worsening pain), it’s important to consult a healthcare provider immediately for further guidance.

How Euflexxa Compares to Other Joint Treatments

When it comes to non-surgical treatments for knee osteoarthritis, injecting Euflexxa is the best treatment option for its advantages. However, it’s not the only option available. Here’s how it compares to a couple of other common treatments:

1. Cortisone injections. These are often used for quick relief, but are more of a short-term solution. Cortisone doesn’t improve the joint lubrication and has potential negative effects like weakening cartilage over time.
2. Synvisc-One. Like Euflexxa, Synvisc-One is another type of hyaluronic acid injections. The main difference is that Synvisc-One is typically given as a single injection. Some patients may prefer Synvisc-One for its convenience, but others find Euflexxa more effective over the long term.

Some healthcare providers offer the physical therapy. Unfortunately, it only focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee to reduce stress on the joint. While it’s a helpful non-invasive option, it may not provide enough relief on its own for patients with severe joint pain.

Final Thoughts on Euflexxa Injections

For those struggling with knee pain due to osteoarthritis, Euflexxa offers a promising solution. It’s not a steroid, as this injectable medication works in a way that mimics the body’s natural joint fluid, providing long-term relief without the negative effects of more aggressive treatments. While the results may take time, many patients find that after completing the treatment, they can move more freely.From personal experience, patients often report improved mobility and quality of life. If you’ve been dealing with persistent severe pain and other treatments haven’t worked, order Euflexxa at Ogomed. But before, consult with your doctor to determine if it’s the right fit for your specific needs.