Pentosan Polysulfate (PPS)

A semi-synthetic polysulfated xylan derived from beechwood hemicellulose. FDA-approved for interstitial cystitis and widely used in veterinary medicine for osteoarthritis. Promotes joint recovery and cartilage protection.

• Inhibits degradative enzymes (hyaluronidase, elastase) in cartilage
• Stimulates chondrocyte proteoglycan and collagen synthesis
• Restores glycosaminoglycan layer on bladder/joint surfaces
• Weak anticoagulant activity through antithrombin III
• Reduces inflammatory mediator release in synovial tissue

• Active bleeding or hemophilia
• Concurrent anticoagulant therapy (increased bleeding risk)
• Hepatic insufficiency
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Pre-existing macular disease (requires ophthalmologic monitoring)

Store oral capsules at room temperature (15–25°C (59–77°F)). Injectable formulation: store at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Do not freeze.

FDA-approved as Elmiron for interstitial cystitis since 1996. Extensive veterinary use (Cartrophen Vet) for osteoarthritis in dogs and horses with strong efficacy data. Post-marketing surveillance identified rare maculopathy risk with prolonged use prompting FDA label update in 2020.