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Sodium Hyaluronate is a viscous solution consisting of a high molecular weight fraction of purified natural sodium hyaluronate in buffered physiological sodium phosphate. It has a pH of 5.5-7.0. Hyaluronic acid is an important component of the body's extracellular matrix and is present in a particularly high concentration in cartilage and synovial fluid. Endogenous hyaluronic acid provides viscosity and elasticity to synovial fluid, which is fundamental for its lubricating and shock absorbing properties. It is essential for the correct structure of proteoglycans in articular cartilage. In osteoarthritis there is an insufficient amount of and a chance in the quality of hyaluronic acid in synovial fluid and cartilage. The intra-articular administration of hyaluronic acid into arthritic joints with degenerating cartilage surfaces and pathologically altered synovial fluid improved functions.
Pharmacology
Sodium hyaluronate is a polysaccharide which functions as a tissue lubricant. It is widely used in ophthalmic surgery because it forms a viscoelastic solution in water which makes it a suitable substitute for aqueous and vitreous humour.