Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally present in the human body. It is found in the highest concentrations in fluids in the eyes and joints. The hyaluronic acid that is used as medicine is extracted from rooster combs or made by bacteria in the laboratory.

People take hyaluronic acid for various joint disorders, including osteoarthritis and joint pain. It can be taken by mouth or injected into the affected joint by a healthcare professional. Hyaluronic acid can also be injected directly into the bladder for women with frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and be taken by mouth for acid reflux.

The FDA has approved the use of hyaluronic acid during certain eye surgeries including cataract removal, corneal transplantation, and repair of a detached retina and other eye injuries. It is injected into the eye during the procedure to help replace natural fluids.

Hyaluronic acid is also used as a lip filler in plastic surgery.

Some people apply hyaluronic acid to the skin for healing wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, dry eyes, burns, skin ulcers, and as a moisturizer.

There is also a lot of interest in using hyaluronic acid to prevent the effects of aging. In fact, hyaluronic acid has been promoted as a "fountain of youth." However, there is no evidence to support the claim that taking it by mouth or applying it to the skin can prevent changes associated with aging.

How does it work?

Hyaluronic acid works by acting as a cushion and lubricant in the joints and other tissues. In addition, it might affect the way the body responds to injury and may decrease inflammation.

Cataracts.
Aging skin. .
Urinary tract infection (UTI).

By Mouth:

For aging skin: A specific product (GliSODin Skin Nutrients Advanced Anti-Aging Formula, Isocell North America Inc.) containing krill oil, sea buckthorn berry oil, cacao bean extract, and hyaluronic acid, has been used daily for 90 days.

Applied to the Skin:

For mouth sores: Hyaluronic acid (Gelclair, Helsinn Healthcare SA) can be mixed with water and used as a mouth rinse.

By Injection:

For aging skin: Healthcare providers can inject a hyaluronic acid product (Juvéderm Ultra Plus, Allergan) into skin wrinkles.

By a Catheter:

Urinary tract infection (UTI): Solution containing 40 mg of hyaluronic acid (Cystistat, Bioniche Life Sciences Inc.) has been given once weekly for 4 weeks then monthly for 4-5 months. Also, 50 mL of solution containing hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate (iAluRil, IBSA Farmaceutici) has been given once weekly for 4 weeks, then every other week or once monthly for up to 5 months.

Hyaluronic acid is SAFE when taken by mouth, applied to the skin, or given by injection and appropriately. Hyaluronic acid can cause redness and soreness when injected into the joint. Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions. Hyaluronic acid can increase eye pressure when injected into the eye. But this usually resolves within 48 to 72 hours.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Hyaluronic acid is POSSIBLY SAFE when given by injection during pregnancy. However, not enough is known about the safety of hyaluronic acid when taken by mouth or applied to the skin during pregnancy. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Hyaluronic acid is UNSAFE when given by injection during breast feeding. Researchers do not know if it affects breast milk and what effect that might have on an infant. There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking hyaluronic acid by mouth or applying it to the skin if you are breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.