Brian T. Palumbo, MD is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in Hip & Knee Reconstructive Surgery in Tampa, Florida
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 30 million Americans live with some variation of OA. This condition can lead to pain and stiffness, making everyday activities, like going up the stairs or sleeping, difficult. Being one of the world’s leading causes of disability, effectively managing OA pain is paramount to participating comfortably in the activities of daily life.
OA can affect many joints; however, knees are the most frequently affected. In a recent survey, almost everyone (100%) who lives with knee pain reported that they have tried some form of treatment to address their pain, such as over-the-counter (OTC) medications, topical creams, opioids, ice and elevation. However, 97% state that their daily lives are still negatively impacted by the condition. This may be an indicator that typical treatment options are falling short. Several types of (OTC) medications may help relieve some OA symptoms; however, recognizing that everyone experiences pain differently outlines the importance of selecting the most appropriate pain management option to provide effective relief.
Short-acting injections are also frequently used to manage OA pain; however, their duration can gradually lose efficacy. As a healthcare provider, I am committed to finding the best care for my patients. In my practice, I wanted an option that reduced the necessity for frequent clinic visits while ensuring long-lasting relief for patients. When I first encountered ZILRETTA® (triamcinolone acetonide extended-release injectable suspension), an extended-release pain relief treatment administered via a single injection, I was intrigued by an option that can provide patients with a season of pain relief. Since I began utilizing this option regularly, I have seen firsthand its value for patients – including those who aren’t prepared for knee replacement surgery or prefer to delay the procedure but are looking for sustained relief*.
ZILRETTA, the first FDA-approved treatment for knee OA pain using extended-release microsphere technology, offers a distinct mechanism of relief. Unlike traditional knee pain injections, ZILRETTA is injected directly into the knee, and the microspheres stay put, providing slow, continuous pain relief for about three months. Moreover, ZILRETTA is a non-opioid option, mitigating the risks associated with taking opioids, including dependence and addiction.
Those living with persistent OA knee pain should feel empowered to have open and honest conversations with their healthcare providers when it comes to pain management. Whether you’re considering surgery or not, knowing that there are effective non-opioid options available, like ZILRETTA, can make all the difference in your journey toward reclaiming an active and pain-free lifestyle.
For more information, please visit https://zilretta.com/important-risk-information/.
This article is sponsored by Pacira BioSciences, Inc., manufacturer of ZILRETTA.
Dr. Palumbo is a paid consultant of Pacira BioSciences, Inc.
*This is based on Dr. Palumbo’s own experience using ZILRETTA. Results may vary.
Indication
ZILRETTA® (triamcinolone acetonide extended-release injectable suspension) is an extended-release corticosteroid approved to manage osteoarthritis knee pain. The benefits and risks of repeat injections have not been demonstrated.
You should not receive a ZILRETTA injection if you are allergic to corticosteroids, triamcinolone acetonide, or any other component of the product.
Important Safety Information
Possible side effects:
- Rare serious allergic reactions
- Effects in the injected knee such as infection (with pain, swelling and restricted motion) or joint damage
- Increased chance of getting an infection, and a decreased ability to fight an infection
- Effects on hormone production. These effects can be reversible
- Elevated blood pressure, sodium and water retention, and potassium loss
- Intestinal perforation if you have certain gastrointestinal disorders
- Weakening of bones
- Changes in behavior or mood disturbances
- Increased pressure inside the eye
In multiple clinical trials, the most common side effects seen in people taking ZILRETTA were joint pain, headache, joint swelling, back pain, sore throat and runny nose, upper respiratory tract infection, and bruising.
Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking (including both prescription and over-the-counter medicines) and about any medical conditions, especially if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, ulcers, diverticulitis or other gastrointestinal disorders, kidney problems, diabetes, glaucoma, behavior or mood disorders, and/or infections.
Contact your doctor if you develop a fever or other signs of infection, have an increase in pain along with swelling of the injected knee, restriction of joint motion, or a general feeling of discomfort. Contact your doctor immediately if you are exposed to chicken pox or measles, or for any new or worsening changes in behavior or mood.
These are not all of the possible side effects with ZILRETTA or corticosteroid medications. Please see the full Prescribing Information at www.ZILRETTALabel.com/PI.pdf. Always contact your doctor if you have questions or experience any side effects.
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-844-353-9466 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
PP-ZA-US-0706
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