Description
Sodium hyaluronate, the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid (HA), is a non- sulphated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) which is present in many body tissues including connective tissue and skin and in synovial (joint) fluid in very high concentrations. HA provides visco-elastic properties to joint fluid and functions as a lubricant. Hyaluronic acid molecules are long chains which form a filter matrix which both supplements the visco elastic properties of joint fluid and acts as a filter to limit movement of cells into joint fluid. Sodium hyaluronate supplementation to joints restores lubrication of the joint fluid and exerts an anti-inflammatory action by limiting movement of inflammatory cells into the joint. This effect limits joint effusion, and assists in reducing ongoing joint degeneration.
In joint disease, inflammation leads to the accumulation of inflammatory cells and degradative enzymes in the joint fluid which break down HA. The loss of HA results in lowered viscosity of the joint fluid and further influx of inflammatory cells, leading to further cartilage damage and worsening joint
disease. Supplementation of sodium hyaluronate helps to replace HA lost as a result of joint disease and thereby restores lubrication of the joint, reduces inflammatory infiltrates and minimises ongoing damage.
HALO INJECTION is easy to administer and eliminates the usual risks of intra-articular injection which include joint damage, septic arthritis and drug-induced joint reaction. The product allows for treatment of multiple joint problems throughout the body with each intravenous injection.
Due to the highly vascular nature of the equine synovial membrane it is possible that intravenous administration provides the synoviocytes with more exposure to exogenous hyaluronic acid than intra-articular administration. Where massive vascularisation of the synovia exists, intravenous
administration may promote wider delivery of the exogenous sodium hyaluronate to synoviocytes. Intravenous administration may also be preferable for animals with chronic and/or multiple problems.
Combination of intravenous sodium hyaluronate with intra-articular corticosteroids for the treatment of joint disease may produce a more rapid response than either product administered alone. In addition, sodium hyaluronate may reduce the potential deleterious effects of corticosteroids on joint structures.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Intravenous Use: Halo Injection contains medium molecular weight Sodium
Hyaluronate of a viscosity suitable for intravenous injection.
Dosage: Adult Horse (450 – 500 kg):
Administer 6 mL Halo Injection intravenously.
Repeat weekly for 3-5 injections.
Radiographic examination should be undertaken prior to administration to
rule out joint fractures or advanced degenerative joint disease.
When administering to competition horses, ensure that the regulations of
relevant authorities are observed.
Meat Withholding Period (Horses): Nil
