Osteoarthritis is a common condition that causes pain and stiffness in the joints, especially the knee, making simple daily activities a struggle for many. With more people looking for better ways to manage this condition, new treatments like Arthrosamid—a novel injectable gel—have been attracting attention in the UK. Despite growing interest from patients and doctors alike, Arthrosamid isn’t yet available on the NHS. This article unpacks why that is, explaining the challenges around NHS access, the approval process, and what options patients have if they want to try this treatment now. We’ll also look ahead to promising research and what the future might bring.

What Is Arthrosamid and Why Is Everyone Talking About It?

Arthrosamid is a soft gel made from polyacrylamide that’s injected directly into the knee joint. It works by cushioning and supporting the joint lining, which helps to reduce pain and improve movement for people with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis. Unlike the steroid or hyaluronic acid injections currently used on the NHS, Arthrosamid’s effects can last for up to two years from just one treatment, according to some studies.

A recent review highlighted that “injection of PAAG hydrogel into the knee has been shown to be safe with no long-lasting side effects” (Cole et al., 2022). It also found “significant improvement for at least two years” after treatment. What's more, a large clinical study following patients for three years found that Arthrosamid remains effective and well-tolerated long term (Bliddal et al., 2023).

When compared directly with other common injections, Arthrosamid showed similar benefits in the short term, with some advantage at six months, although long-term superiority was less clear (Aykaç et al., 2025). Overall, its potential to relieve symptoms for an extended period is what makes it stand out, sparking interest among patients hoping to avoid surgery or frequent treatments.

Why Isn’t Arthrosamid Available on the NHS Yet?

Getting a new treatment approved for NHS use is a careful and sometimes lengthy process. Groups like NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) and NHS England review all available evidence to make sure a treatment is safe, effective, and good value for public funds.

While current research paints a promising picture—like the positive results after three years of use (Bliddal et al., 2023) and the overall safety and efficacy noted in reviews (Cole et al., 2022)—NICE requires comprehensive evidence from large-scale, high-quality trials that confirm these benefits over the long term. They want to be certain that new treatments deliver sustained relief and justify NHS investment.

At the same time, the NHS must balance many competing priorities on a limited budget. Osteoarthritis affects millions, but new treatments need to clearly demonstrate value over existing options before they are routinely funded. Comparative studies show Arthrosamid is at least as effective as traditional injections and may last longer, but the data on long-term superiority is still emerging (Aykaç et al., 2025). This means NHS adoption will likely follow only once more conclusive evidence is available.

Can Patients Access Arthrosamid Privately for Now?

Yes. For those keen to try Arthrosamid, private clinics offer the treatment, often through review and referral by orthopaedic or rheumatology specialists. Treatment typically involves a single injection and costs can range from several hundred to over a thousand pounds.

Private healthcare differs from the NHS in terms of cost and regulation, so it’s important patients choose reputable clinics with experienced clinicians. They should also discuss the potential benefits and risks, and understand that aftercare might differ from NHS follow-up.

Insurance cover for this treatment may be limited, so patients should clarify their options beforehand. While private access can offer quicker availability, it requires weighing financial and safety factors carefully.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Arthrosamid and the NHS?

Research continues. The three-year follow-up trial (Bliddal et al., 2023) and other ongoing studies will provide the detailed evidence NICE needs to make informed decisions. Arthrosamid’s potential to delay the need for knee surgery is particularly promising.

The NHS approval process can take several years, moving through stages of assessment, cost-effectiveness review, and commissioning decisions. Given current progress, wider NHS availability of Arthrosamid may become a reality within the next few years, depending on the strength of upcoming evidence.

In the meantime, patients and advocates can play a role by participating in clinical trials or raising awareness. Staying informed through healthcare providers and official sources is key to making safe, timely choices.

Conclusion
Arthrosamid offers an exciting new option for people with knee osteoarthritis, with benefits that may last longer than many current NHS treatments. However, its absence from NHS formularies is due to rigorous approval requirements designed to protect patients and public resources. Private treatment is an option but comes with higher costs and different oversight.

As research progresses and more data becomes available, Arthrosamid’s future on the NHS looks hopeful. Patients should keep in close contact with their healthcare teams, explore all proven treatment options, and be patient while the NHS ensures new therapies meet high standards for safety and effectiveness.

References

• Cole, A., Maulana, R. K., Whitehead, J. P., & Lee, P. Y. F. (2022). A systematic review of the novel compound Arthrosamid polyacrylamide (PAAG) hydrogel for treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Medical Research Archives, 10(8). https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v10i8.2950
• Bliddal, H., Beier, J., Hartkopp, A., Conaghan, P. G., & Henriksen, M. (2023). Polyacrylamide hydrogel for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: 3 year follow up results of a prospective clinical study. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 82(Suppl 1), 2110. https://doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2023-eular.6038
• Aykaç, B., Dinç, M., Nar, Ö. O., Karasu, R., & Bayrak, H. Ç. (2025). Comparative efficacy of polyacrylamide hydrogel versus hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids in knee osteoarthritis: A retrospective cohort study. Medicine, 104(38), e44655. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000044655