Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an anionic, nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan found in connective, epithelial, and neural tissues; it was first isolated in 1934. Karl Meyer and John Palmer obtained glycosaminoglycan (GAG) from the bovine eye, giving it the name “hyaluronic acid”. HA is involved in many important physiological processes, including but not limited to wound healing, tissue regeneration, and joint lubrication. It demonstrates unique viscoelasticity, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory qualities, and other important properties that prove beneficial in various clinical applications.

HA is used in drug delivery systems for the treatment of cancer, ophthalmological conditions, joint conditions, and aesthetic imperfections. Several preparations of hyaluronic acid have been approved by the FDA and are available in oral, topical, and injectable forms. A popular use of hyaluronic acid in recent years is cosmetic injection due to its ability to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and aging-related skin imperfections.

The intra-articular preparations of hyaluronic acid are indicated for knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is used in cosmetic applications to prevent and reduce the appearance of wrinkles on the face, and as a dermal filler to correct facial imperfections or other imperfections on other parts of the body. It is frequently an ingredient in topical applications for wound healing and symptomatic treatment of skin irritation from various causes. Hyaluronic acid may also be indicated in ophthalmological preparations or oral capsules to treat discomfort caused by dry eyes or conjunctivitis and for its protective qualities during and before eye surgery. Finally, hyaluronic acid can be used off-label to coat the bladder for relief of interstitial cystitis symptoms.