Arthrosamid is an intra-articular polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG; 97.5% water) designed to cushion and lubricate the knee joint. It’s delivered as a single 6 mL injection under local anesthesia. Clinical studies report sustained pain reduction for 1–3+ years, and program data now track outcomes out to 4–5 years in prospective cohorts. It differs from hyaluronic acid (HA): Arthrosamid forms a long-lasting hydrogel matrix that integrates with synovial tissue, rather than being gradually resorbed.


A polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) that, once injected into the knee, forms a stable cushioning matrix and interacts with synovial tissue to reduce friction and pain. It’s compositionally 97.5% water / 2.5% polymer.
Most protocols use one 6 mL injection. Trials evaluating this single-dose regimen have shown sustained WOMAC improvements through 12 months and up to 3 years; longer-term extension cohorts report benefits into year 4–5. Individual response varies.
Adults with knee osteoarthritis who want a non-surgical option and have tried lifestyle/physio/analgesics ± prior injections. A clinician will screen for contraindications (e.g., active joint infection, overlying skin infection, recent septic arthritis) and tailor timing if you’ve recently had other intra-articular injections/surgery.
Typically clinic visit under local with post-injection soreness or effusion for a few days. Most return to routine activities within 24–48 hours; your provider will set activity limits and follow-up.
Peer-reviewed studies show clinically meaningful pain and function improvement at 1 year vs HA, with open-label cohorts maintaining significant reductions at 2–3 years; sponsor and conference releases report 4-year follow-ups and ongoing 5-year tracking. Results vary by OA severity and adherence to a rehab plan.
HA supplements synovial fluid and tends to wear off over months. Arthrosamid creates a long-lasting hydrogel matrix that integrates with synovial tissue, aiming for longer durability from a single treatment.
Generally well-tolerated in studies. Potential events include transient pain/swelling/effusion, injection-site discomfort, infection (rare but serious), and treatment failure. Long-term data to 3–4 years are reassuring; continued surveillance is ongoing.
Public clinic references (Toronto) list ~C$2,600–$3,500 for a single injection; pricing varies by city, imaging guidance, and package (follow-ups/physio). Provincial insurance (e.g., OHIP) does not cover Arthrosamid; some extended plans may reimburse portions. Your consultation provides an exact quote.

