Hyaluronic Acid, sometimes known as hyaluronan, is naturally produced by your body. It is found in the highest concentrations in fluids of the eyes and joints, as well as under the skin. Hyaluronic Acid can retain water to keep tissues well lubricated and moist. It also helps to reduce friction in moving joints.
Commercially, Hyaluronic Acid is used by people to relieve dry eyes and dry skin. It is a common ingredient in many cosmetic and skincare products. Eating foods high in vitamin C and amino acids, such as oranges, kale, broccoli, spinach, and lettuce, helps our bodies produce more hyaluronic acid.
Medically, Hyaluronic Acid is available in its salt form, Sodium Hyaluronate. It is approved as an injection for cataracts, lens implantation, and various joint disorders, including osteoarthritis of the knee. It is also used in active wound dressings, which promotes the recovery of skin ulcers and wounds.
Hyaluronic Acid is available in its salt form, Sodium Hyaluronate, as eye drops, wound dressing and injections.
The dosages of the salt form Sodium Hyaluronate are listed below.
Dry eyes
Adult
Eye drops: Apply 1-2 drops when required.
Skin ulcers and wounds
Adult
Apply the medicated gauze pad on the disinfected wound/ulcer. Change the dressing 2-3 times daily.
During cataract extraction or intraocular lens implantation surgery
Adult
Apply a sufficient quantity into the eye as required by the surgeon.
Osteoarthritis of the knee
Adult
Injection: Inject 20-25 mg into the joint (intra-articularly) once weekly for 5 weeks or up to 30 mg once weekly for 3-4 weeks. Treatment should not be repeated within 6 months for any individual joint.
There are no known side effects of Hyaluronic Acid.
Common dosing schedule:
Use when required.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Hyaluronic Acid may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Hyaluronic Acid is an over-the-counter medicine and can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Hyaluronic Acid in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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