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Treatment Comparison

Monovisc vs Durolane

Compare Monovisc and Durolane single-injection knee treatments. Key difference: avian vs non-avian source for allergy considerations.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Source Material

Monovisc Avian (rooster comb)
Durolane Non-animal (NASHA technology)

Bird Allergy Safe

Monovisc No
Durolane Yes

Manufacturer

Monovisc DePuy Synthes (J&J)
Durolane Bioventus

Volume

Monovisc 4 mL
Durolane 3 mL

Self-Pay Cost

Monovisc $700-$1,100
Durolane $900-$1,300

Molecular Weight

Monovisc High (cross-linked)
Durolane High (cross-linked)

Duration of Relief

Monovisc Up to 6 months
Durolane Up to 6 months

Medicare Coverage

Monovisc Yes
Durolane Yes

It Depends on Your Situation

Both provide effective single-injection treatment. Monovisc is typically more affordable, while Durolane is the only option for patients with bird allergies.

Best for: Monovisc for most patients; Durolane for those with avian allergies or non-animal preferences.

The Key Question: Any Bird Allergies?

Monovisc and Durolane are both excellent single-injection HA treatments—but your allergy status determines which is right for you.

  • No bird allergies? Either works. Monovisc is typically cheaper.
  • Bird/egg allergies? Durolane is your only single-injection option.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FactorMonoviscDurolane
SourceAvian (rooster comb)Non-animal (NASHA)
Bird allergy safeNoYes
ManufacturerDePuy Synthes (J&J)Bioventus
Volume4 mL3 mL
Self-pay$700-$1,100$900-$1,300
With insurance$100-$350$150-$400
Injections needed11
DurationUp to 6 monthsUp to 6 months

Monovisc: The Affordable Single-Shot

Advantages

Lower cost - Typically $200-300 less than Durolane
J&J backing - From a trusted orthopedic leader
Wide availability - Most providers stock it

Limitations

Not for avian allergies - Contraindicated if allergic to birds/eggs

Durolane: The Allergy-Safe Option

Advantages

Bird allergy safe - NASHA technology, no animal products
Smaller volume - 3 mL vs 4 mL, potentially less swelling
Unique positioning - Only non-avian single-injection option

Limitations

Higher cost - Premium pricing for allergy-safe formulation

Allergy Decision Tree

Do you have allergies to birds, eggs, feathers, or poultry?

Yes: Choose Durolane (only safe single-injection option)

No: Either works. Consider Monovisc for lower cost.

Not sure: Get tested before treatment, or choose Durolane to be safe.


Making Your Decision

Choose Monovisc if:

  • You have no bird/egg allergies
  • Cost is a significant factor
  • Your insurance prefers J&J products

Choose Durolane if:

  • You have or might have avian allergies
  • You prefer non-animal products
  • Smaller injection volume matters to you

The Bottom Line

Allergies Determine the Choice

For most patients without avian allergies, Monovisc offers comparable effectiveness at lower cost.

For patients with allergies to birds or eggs, Durolane is the only single-injection option—and the premium is worth avoiding an allergic reaction.

Find Single-Injection Providers

Connect with specialists offering both Monovisc and Durolane.

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  • 3 Contact you to discuss your options

Questions? Browse our guides:

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