Sodium hyaluronate

Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. It is a glycosaminoglycan and long-chain polymer of disaccharide units. The polyanionic form, commonly referred to as hyaluronan, is a visco-elastic polymer found in the aqueous and vitreous humour of the eye and in the fluid of articulating joints. It can be used to protect skin ulcers, burns, or wounds from irritation so that the skin can heal properly. Some products are also used to help relieve itching and pain from various skin conditions. It is aslo used to treat knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis. It is injected into the joint capsule, to act as both a shock absorber and a lubricant for the joint. It is increasing the viscosity of the synovial fluid, which helps lubricate, cushion and reduce pain in the joint.