durolane 20mg injection - Hyaluronic Acid (20mg) medicine

Durolane 20mg Injection: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for knee osteoarthritis; limited for other joints.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe joint pain, swelling, or redness that worsens after injection.
  • Fever, chills, or feeling unwell.
  • Inability to move the injected joint.
  • Signs of allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing.
  • Bleeding or bruising around the injection site that is excessive or increasing.
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is durolane 20mg injection used for?

This medicine is a hyaluronic acid injection used to treat knee osteoarthritis by improving joint lubrication and reducing pain. It is given by a healthcare professional directly into the joint.

  • Generic Name: Hyaluronic Acid
  • Manufacturer: Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 durolane 20mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा हायलूरोनिक एसिड का इंजेक्शन है, जिसका उपयोग घुटनों के ऑस्टियोआर्थराइटिस (जोड़ों की घिसावट) के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह जोड़ों में चिकनाई बढ़ाकर दर्द और अकड़न को कम करती है। यह इंजेक्शन डॉक्टर द्वारा सीधे प्रभावित जोड़ में लगाया जाता है। यह दवा उन रोगियों के लिए है जिन्हें सामान्य दर्द निवारक दवाओं और फिजियोथेरेपी से लाभ नहीं हुआ है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन की जगह पर दर्द, सूजन, लालिमा या गर्माहट शामिल हैं। कुछ रोगियों को इंजेक्शन के बाद जोड़ों में दर्द या अकड़न बढ़ सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन इनमें तेज बुखार, ठंड लगना, जोड़ों में तेज दर्द या सूजन शामिल हो सकते हैं। ऐसे लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य डॉक्टर द्वारा ही लगाई जानी चाहिए। खुद से इंजेक्शन न लगाएं। अगर आपको हायलूरोनिक एसिड या किसी अन्य दवा से एलर्जी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। इंजेक्शन के बाद 48 घंटे तक जोड़ पर ज्यादा जोर न डालें और भारी काम न करें। अगर इंजेक्शन की जगह पर लालिमा, सूजन या बुखार हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान इस दवा का उपयोग डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न करें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 durolane 20mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Osteoarthritis of the knee","description":"Reduces pain and improves joint function in patients with knee osteoarthritis who have not responded to conservative measures.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Osteoarthritis of the hip","description":"May be used for hip osteoarthritis, though evidence is less robust than for the knee.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Osteoarthritis of the shoulder","description":"Sometimes used for shoulder osteoarthritis, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Temporomandibular joint disorders","description":"Intra-articular injection may be used off-label for TMJ pain and dysfunction.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Ankle osteoarthritis","description":"Occasionally used for ankle osteoarthritis, but evidence is insufficient.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Osteoarthritis of the knee

Also treats: Osteoarthritis of the hip, Osteoarthritis of the shoulder

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Hyaluronic Acid
Brand NameAquim 0.18% Eye Gel
ManufacturerDr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassPAIN ANALGESICS
Action ClassOsteoarthritis- Hyaluronic acid
Route of AdministrationIntra-articular injection (into the joint space)
StorageStore in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep in the original package until use.
Shelf LifeRefer to the expiry date on the package. Do not use after the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Ensure the injection is administered by a trained professional in a sterile environment.
2
Advise patients to rest the joint and avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours after the injection.
3
Monitor for signs of joint infection such as fever, chills, and severe swelling.
4
Consider alternative treatments if the patient has a history of allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid.
5
Evaluate the patient's response after 3 to 5 weeks to determine if further injections are needed.
6
Inform patients that the full effect may take up to 4 weeks to manifest.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Chronic knee pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for knee osteoarthritis.
Likely Use
Joint swelling
May be used for joint swelling due to osteoarthritis, but not for acute injuries.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not used to treat fever.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNot applicable. This medicine is administered directly into the joint cavity, so systemic absorption is minimal and not clinically significant.
DistributionNot applicable. The injected hyaluronic acid remains primarily within the joint space and synovial fluid.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismHyaluronic acid is metabolized locally in the joint by hyaluronidases and reactive oxygen species into smaller fragments, which are then cleared via the lymphatic system.
Half-LifeThe half-life of hyaluronic acid in the joint is estimated to be several hours to a few days, but the clinical effects last much longer due to the restoration of viscoelasticity.
ExcretionDegradation products are cleared through the lymphatic system and eventually enter the bloodstream for further metabolism and excretion.
BioavailabilityNot applicable. This medicine is administered locally, and its effects are local rather than systemic.
Onset of ActionPain relief may begin within a few days to a week after injection, but maximum benefit may take 2 to 4 weeks.
Peak Plasma TimeNot applicable. Systemic absorption is negligible.
Duration of ActionThe effects of a single injection can last for approximately 6 months, but this varies among individuals.

How It Works

Hyaluronic acid is a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide that naturally occurs in synovial fluid and cartilage. When injected into a joint, it supplements the viscoelastic properties of synovial fluid, improving lubrication and shock absorption. It also interacts with cell surface receptors such as CD44, which may modulate inflammatory responses and stimulate endogenous hyaluronic acid production. This leads to reduced pain and improved joint function.

Mechanism Steps

1
Injection into joint space: This medicine is injected directly into the synovial cavity of the affected joint by a healthcare professional.
2
Supplementation of synovial fluid: The injected hyaluronic acid increases the concentration and molecular weight of hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid, enhancing its viscosity and elasticity.
3
Lubrication and cushioning: The enhanced viscoelastic properties reduce friction between articular surfaces and absorb mechanical shocks during movement.
4
Interaction with receptors: Hyaluronic acid binds to CD44 and other receptors on synoviocytes and chondrocytes, which may reduce inflammatory cytokine production and stimulate endogenous hyaluronic acid synthesis.
5
Pain relief and functional improvement: The combined effects lead to decreased pain, improved joint mobility, and reduced stiffness, which can last for several months.

💡 How to Take durolane 20mg injection

Strength: 20 mg per injection (pre-filled syringe).

1This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
2The injection site is cleaned and sterilized before the procedure.
3The healthcare professional will inject the medicine directly into the affected joint space.
4After the injection, you may be asked to rest the joint for a short period.
5Avoid strenuous activity or prolonged weight-bearing on the injected joint for at least 48 hours.
6Follow your doctor's instructions for follow-up care and monitoring.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is a single 20 mg intra-articular injection into the affected joint. The injection is typically given once weekly for 3 to 5 weeks, depending on the product and the patient's response. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients. However, elderly patients may have reduced renal or hepatic function and should be monitored accordingly. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment, as systemic absorption is negligible.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with hepatic impairment, as systemic absorption is negligible.
Maximum Daily DoseNot applicable. This medicine is administered as a single injection per treatment session, typically not more than once weekly.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 You miss your scheduled injection appointment
→ Contact your doctor to reschedule as soon as possible.
💡 Do not attempt to self-administer the injection.
📌 You miss a dose in a series of injections
→ Resume the schedule as advised by your doctor.
💡 Do not double the dose or inject more frequently than prescribed.

⚠️ Side Effects of durolane 20mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Injection site pain (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves within a few days. Rest the joint and avoid strenuous activity. Consult your doctor if pain persists or worsens.
Joint swelling (Common (5-10%))
Apply ice packs if advised by your doctor. Elevate the joint if possible. Contact your doctor if swelling is severe or accompanied by fever.
Joint stiffness (Common (5-10%))
Gentle range-of-motion exercises may help. Avoid overuse. Consult your doctor if stiffness persists beyond a week.
Redness or warmth at injection site (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves spontaneously. Keep the area clean and dry. Seek medical advice if redness spreads or becomes painful.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Septic arthritis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe joint pain, swelling, fever, chills, or inability to move the joint.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, hives, or a rapid heartbeat.
Bleeding into the joint (hemarthrosis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if the joint becomes rapidly swollen, painful, and bruised, especially if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Joint infection
Requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include fever, chills, severe joint pain, and swelling.
Allergic dermatitis
Discontinue use and consult a doctor if you develop a rash, itching, or hives.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Heparin Major
Intra-articular corticosteroids Moderate
NSAIDs Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Corticosteroids (intra-articular)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No known interaction with alcohol. However, excessive alcohol consumption may worsen joint inflammation and should be avoided.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid or any component of the formulation.","Active joint infection or skin infection at the injection site.","Active bleeding or bleeding disorders.","Pregnancy and breastfeeding (unless clearly needed and advised by a doctor)."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional.","Do not use if the packaging is damaged or the solution is discolored.","Avoid strenuous activity or prolonged weight-bearing on the injected joint for at least 48 hours.","Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergies, especially to avian products.","Use with caution in patients with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulants.","Not recommended for children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether hyaluronic acid is excreted in human milk. Consult your doctor before receiving this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose is unlikely as this medicine is administered by a healthcare professional. In case of accidental overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is given as a single injection by a healthcare professional. If you miss a scheduled appointment for your injection, contact your doctor to reschedule as soon as possible. Do not attempt to self-administer.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must be administered only by a qualified healthcare professional in a sterile environment. Do not attempt to self-inject. Inform your doctor if you are allergic to hyaluronic acid, avian products, or any other medications. Tell your doctor if you have an active infection, bleeding disorder, or are taking blood-thinning medications. Avoid strenuous activity or prolonged weight-bearing on the injected joint for at least 48 hours after the injection. Do not apply heat or ice packs unless advised by your doctor. If you experience signs of infection such as fever, chills, or increasing redness and swelling, contact your doctor immediately. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly needed and advised by your doctor.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may have reduced renal or hepatic function and should be monitored accordingly. No specific dose adjustment is required, but the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before receiving this medicine. It is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine is not typically used immediately after joint surgery. Consult your surgeon before considering this injection.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific precautions for dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about any medications you are taking.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints.
🥗
Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling.
😴
Practice good posture and body mechanics.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 rich fish.
🧘
Get adequate rest and sleep to aid recovery.
🌞
Use assistive devices like canes or braces if needed to reduce joint strain.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid high-impact activities such as running or jumping for at least 48 hours after the injection. Gradually resume your normal exercise routine as advised by your doctor. Listen to your body and stop if you experience increased pain or swelling.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseed, and walnuts.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Reduce intake of processed foods and added sugars.
Stay well hydrated to maintain joint lubrication.
Consider calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

Most patients can return to work the next day, but if your job involves heavy lifting or prolonged standing, you may need to take it easy for a few days. Driving is generally safe, but avoid driving if you experience joint pain or swelling that impairs your ability to control the vehicle.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop or change your treatment plan without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or no improvement after the full course, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term effects of repeated hyaluronic acid injections are not well established. Some patients may experience continued relief, while others may not. Regular follow-up with your doctor is recommended to assess the need for continued treatment and to monitor for any adverse effects.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Strengthening exercises and stretching can improve joint function and reduce pain.

Evidence: Well-established
Weight loss

Losing excess weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints.

Evidence: Well-established
Oral pain relievers

NSAIDs or acetaminophen may provide temporary pain relief.

Evidence: Well-established
Corticosteroid injections

Intra-articular steroids can reduce inflammation and pain in the short term.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interactions with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for a vaccination, inform your doctor about your injection schedule.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C.

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze.

✅ DO

Keep in the original package to protect from light.

❌ DON'T

Do not use if the packaging is damaged or the solution is discolored.

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children.

❌ DON'T

Do not store at room temperature for extended periods.

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Keep it refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C during travel using a cool pack. Carry a copy of your prescription to avoid issues at customs. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about scheduling the injection. Do not expose the medicine to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 62-year-old woman with knee osteoarthritis
She had tried pain relievers and physical therapy with limited relief. Her doctor recommended this medicine. After the first injection, she noticed mild swelling and pain for two days, which subsided. By the third week, her knee pain had significantly decreased, and she could walk longer distances without discomfort.
💡 Lesson: Initial side effects are common and usually temporary. Full benefits may take a few weeks to appear.
👤 A 55-year-old man with knee osteoarthritis and diabetes
He received this medicine injection and was advised to monitor his blood sugar. He experienced no significant change in blood sugar levels. His knee pain improved gradually over a month, allowing him to resume his daily walks.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is generally safe for patients with diabetes, but monitoring is advised as part of overall care.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Pain relief may begin within a few days to a week, but maximum benefit may take 2 to 4 weeks.

Q: How often do I need this injection?

A: The typical schedule is once weekly for 3 to 5 weeks, but your doctor will determine the exact frequency.

Q: Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

A: This medicine is generally used for short-term relief. Long-term use should be discussed with your doctor.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?

A: Consult your doctor. It is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed.

Q: What are the side effects?

A: Common side effects include injection site pain, swelling, and stiffness. Serious side effects are rare.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for durolane 20mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure osteoarthritis.
    Fact: This medicine provides symptomatic relief but does not cure osteoarthritis or reverse joint damage.
  • Myth: This medicine is a steroid.
    Fact: This medicine contains hyaluronic acid, not a steroid. It works by lubricating the joint, not by reducing inflammation like steroids.
  • Myth: You can inject this medicine yourself at home.
    Fact: This medicine must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional in a sterile environment.

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","active_ingredient":"Hyaluronic acid 20 mg","route":"Intra-articular","frequency":"Once weekly for 3-5 weeks","duration":"Up to 6 months"},{"medicine":"Hylan G-F 20","active_ingredient":"Hylan G-F 20","route":"Intra-articular","frequency":"Once weekly for 3 weeks","duration":"Up to 6 months"}]

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