What is hyaluronic acid ?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the fluids in the eyes and joints. It acts as a cushion and lubricant in the joints and other tissues. Different forms of hyaluronic acid are used for cosmetic purposes. Hyaluronic acid might also affect the way the body responds to injury and help to decrease swelling. Hyaluronic acid injections are US FDA-approved for several conditions, including cataracts, osteoarthritis, and as an injectable gel filler (Juvedrm) for facial wrinkles. People also commonly take hyaluronic acid by mouth and apply it to the skin for UTIs, acid reflux, dry eyes, wound healing, aging skin, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these other uses. How does it work ?

What are the uses & effectiveness ?

Likely Effective for Cataracts. Injecting hyaluronic acid into the eye is effective when used during cataract surgery by an eye surgeon. Swelling (inflammation) and sores inside the mouth (oral mucositis). Applying an FDA-approved hyaluronic acid gel is effective for treating mouth sores. It's not clear if other products help. Possibly Effective for Aging skin. Injecting a specific hyaluronic acid medical device (Juvderm Ultra Plus, Allergan) into facial wrinkles can reduce wrinkles for up to one year. It's not clear if taking hyaluronic acid by mouth or applying it to the skin helps. Hyaluronic acid injections can only be given by a healthcare provider. Dry eye. Using eye drops containing hyaluronic acid seems to help relieve dry eye symptoms. Osteoarthritis. Injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint can reduce joint pain and stiffness. It's approved by the US FDA as a medical device for this purpose. It's not clear if taking hyaluronic acid by mouth helps. Injectable products can only be given by a healthcare provider. There is interest in using hyaluronic acid for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

What are the side effects?

Hyaluronic acid is likely safe when used appropriately. Allergic reactions might occur but are rare. When applied to the skin: Hyaluronic acid is likely safe when used appropriately. Allergic reactions might occur but are rare.

Special Precautions and Warnings Pregnancy: There isn't enough reliable information to know if hyaluronic acid is safe to use when pregnant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if hyaluronic acid is safe to use when breast-feeding. It's not clear if it's excreted in breast milk and what effect that might have on an infant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Hardening of skin and connective tissue (scleroderma): Applying hyaluronic acid to the skin might make skin ulcers worse in people who have a condition called scleroderma. If you have scleroderma, don't use hyaluronic acid on your skin.

What are the interactions?

We currently have no information for HYALURONIC ACID Interactions.

What is the dosing?

Hyaluronic acid injections are US FDA-approved for several conditions. These products must be given by a healthcare provider. Hyaluronic acid is also available in many different types of topical products, including creams, gels, mouthwashes, and eye drops. In supplements, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of hyaluronic acid might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.