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Pharmacological particulars
Pharmacotherapeutic group: Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid)
ATCvet code: QM09AX01
Pharmacodynamic properties
The active substance in HY-50 Vet, sodium hyaluronate, is produced by a bacterial fermentation process. Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a non-sulphated acid mucopolysaccharide or glycosaminoglycan of high molecular weight composed of equimolar amounts of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetylglocosamine linked together by glycosidic bonds.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural constituent of connective tissues in all mammals and its chemical structure is the same in all species. Vitreous humour, umbilical cord and synovial fluid are especially rich in hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is also found in the articular cartilage matrix.
Hyaluronic acid has biochemical activities which are distinct from its physical and rheological properties. It is an effective free radical scavenger, a potent inhibitor of leucocyte and macrophage migration and aggregation, and enhances healing of connective tissue.
Intra-articularly administered sodium hyaluronate alleviates aseptic joint inflammation and enhances joint function. The mechanism of action involved in the beneficial effects of sodium hyaluronate is not fully understood.
Pharmacokinetic properties
Studies with radiolabelled hyaluronic acid in rabbit and sheep indicate that after intra-articular injection, hyaluronic acid is cleared from the joint within 4-5 days. Uptake is primarily via the lymphatics. Hyaluronate is metabolised in the liver.
Pharmacokinetic properties of intravenously administered sodium hyaluronate have not been studied.