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Treatment Comparison

Orthovisc vs Monovisc

Compare Orthovisc and Monovisc from the same manufacturer (J&J). Key difference: 3-4 weekly injections vs single injection convenience.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Injections Needed

Orthovisc 3-4 weekly
Monovisc 1 (single)

Office Visits

Orthovisc 3-4
Monovisc 1

Volume per Injection

Orthovisc 2 mL each
Monovisc 4 mL total

Self-Pay Cost

Orthovisc $600-$900
Monovisc $700-$1,100

Molecular Weight

Orthovisc High (1-2.9M Da)
Monovisc High (1-2.9M Da)

Source

Orthovisc Avian
Monovisc Avian

Duration

Orthovisc 3-12 months
Monovisc Up to 6 months

Medicare Coverage

Orthovisc Yes
Monovisc Yes

It Depends on Your Situation

Same manufacturer, same source, different schedules. Orthovisc requires 3-4 visits but may provide more gradual delivery. Monovisc offers one-visit convenience.

Best for: Orthovisc for gradual delivery; Monovisc for convenience.

Same Company, Different Approaches

Orthovisc and Monovisc both come from DePuy Synthes (Johnson & Johnson’s orthopedic division). They use the same source material and similar molecular weight—the difference is how the treatment is delivered.


Side-by-Side Comparison

FactorOrthoviscMonovisc
ManufacturerDePuy Synthes (J&J)DePuy Synthes (J&J)
Injections3-4 weekly1 single
Volume per injection2 mL4 mL
Total volume6-8 mL4 mL
Self-pay$600-$900$700-$1,100
Duration3-12 monthsUp to 6 months
SourceAvianAvian

The Delivery Question

Orthovisc: Gradual Approach

  • Multiple smaller injections spread over 3-4 weeks
  • Treatment builds up over time
  • Lower volume per visit (2 mL each)
  • Longer reported duration for some patients (up to 12 months)

Monovisc: One-and-Done

  • Single appointment for complete treatment
  • Immediate full dose delivery
  • Single copay for treatment
  • Convenience for busy schedules

Cost Analysis

FactorOrthoviscMonovisc
Self-pay$600-$900$700-$1,100
Office visits3-41
Copays3-4 × copay1 × copay
Time investmentHigherLower

Making Your Decision

Choose Orthovisc if:

  • You prefer gradual delivery
  • You can attend 3-4 weekly appointments
  • Cost is a primary concern
  • You’ve had success with multi-injection protocols

Choose Monovisc if:

  • Convenience is your priority
  • Scheduling multiple visits is difficult
  • You prefer single-visit treatment
  • You’re willing to pay slightly more

Allergy Note

Both products are avian-derived and contraindicated for bird/egg allergies. If you have allergies, consider Durolane (single) or Euflexxa (multi-injection) as non-avian alternatives.


The Bottom Line

From the same trusted manufacturer, Orthovisc and Monovisc offer different treatment experiences:

  • Orthovisc: More visits, potentially longer relief, lower cost
  • Monovisc: One visit, ultimate convenience, slightly higher cost

Both are effective. Your schedule and preferences should guide the choice.

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