(for veterinary information only)

PENTOSAN POLYSULFATE SODIUM

BRAND NAME: ELMIRON, CARTROPHEN

AVAILABLE IN
100 mg      
CAPSULES    

BACKGROUND

This medication was developed for the treatment of a human disease called “Interstitial Cystitis,” which features recurring pelvic pain and painful urination. This condition is believed to be caused from defects in the biochemical lining of the urinary bladder. This lining protects the bladder tissue from the irritating urine that it holds. A defective lining allows for the urine to contact the tender bladder tissue and cause inflammation and pain.

The lining of the bladder is made of a substance called “glycosaminoglycan,” the same water absorbant material that makes up the bulk of cartilage.  Pentosan polysulfate sodium is a semi-synthetic carbohydrate derivative that is of similar structure to glycosaminoglycan. We think that pentosan polysulfate sodium is able to replenish the bladder lining (though the true mechanism of action remains unknown).  A clinical trial of 145 people with interstitial cystitis showed that 41% of those receiving pentosan polysulfate sodium reported a 50% or greater improvement in discomfort. Only 18% of people receiving placebo had the same results.

(Results of more human studies can be viewed at www.orthoelmiron.com)

There are many features of Interstitial Cystitis that are similar those to “Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease,” a recurring painful feline disease. It was not long after the success of pentosan polysulfate sodium was reported in human medicine that feline treatment followed.

HOW THIS MEDICATION IS USED

Pentosan polysulfate sodium can be used in acute Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, to facilitate the resolution of the episode. It is more commonly recommended as an on-going therapy to prevent future episodes. The jury is still out as to whether or not it is effective.

SIDE EFFECTS

Pentosan polysulfate sodium is similar in structure to the anti-coagulant heparin and, in fact, has 1/15th the anticoagulant strength of heparin. Pentosan polysulfate sodium should not be used in patients with known blood clotting disorders.

INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS

Pentosan polysulfate sodium should not be used with other medications that interfere with blood clotting.

CONCERNS AND CAUTIONS

Pentosan polysulfate sodium is metabolized through the liver. Patients with liver failure will not be as efficient at removing this compound from their bodies and dosage adjustment will likely be needed.