Pentosan Polysulphate

Pentosan Polysulphate In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Semi-synthetic polymer derived from pentose carbohydrates and possesses heparin-like properties.
• Binds to damaged cartilage matrix containing aggregated proteoglycans.
• Stimulates the synthesis of new aggregated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) molecules.
• Demonstrates the ability to inhibit various proteolytic enzymes.
• Modulates cytokine action.
• Stimulates the secretion of hyaluronic acid.
• Preserves proteoglycan content in articular cartilage.
• Stimulates blood flow in articular cartilage.
• Results in analgesic (pain-relieving) and regenerative effects.

Uses of Pentosan Polysulphate

Dose of Pentosan polysulphate in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• 3 mg/kg (0.3 ml/10 kg) s.c. q5–7d on four occasions.
• 10–20 mg per joint intra-articularly in non-septic joints.

Cats:

• Oral formulations available in other countries have been used in cats for osteoarthritis and chronic refractory cases of feline lower urinary tract disease.
• The use of the injectable form has not been well reported in this species, one study reports the use of 3 mg/kg s.c. in cats with FLUTD.
• Administered by aseptic s.c. injection, using an insulin syringe for accurate dosing.
• The manufacturer recommends monitoring hematocrit and total solids.

Side Effects of Pentosan polysulphate in Dogs and Cats

• Pain at the injection site has been reported.
• Because of its fibrinolytic action, the possibility of bleeding from undiagnosed tumours or vascular abnormalities exists.

Contraindications of Pentosan polysulphate in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use if septic arthritis is present or if renal or hepatic impairment exists.
• As it may induce spontaneous bleeding, do not use it in animals with bleeding disorders.

Some Notes:

• Manufacturer’s recommendation: Pentosan polysulfate should not be used simultaneously with steroids, non-steroidal drugs (including aspirin), coumarin-based anticoagulants, or heparin.
• Many dogs with osteoarthritis, potential candidates for pentosan polysulphate treatment, are often receiving NSAID therapy concurrently.
• The risk of bleeding when combining pentosan polysulphate with COX-2 preferential and COX-2 selective NSAIDs is likely low in animals without a history of blood clotting disorders.