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Pentosan Polysulfate (PPS)
FDA Approved
Also known as Elmiron, Cartrophen
Function
Primary
Interstitial cystitis · Osteoarthritis (off-label)
Secondary
Cartilage protection
Mechanism
Synthetic glycosaminoglycan analog — inhibits MMP enzymes; stimulates proteoglycan synthesis; anti-inflammatory; anti-fibrotic; supports synovial fluid quality.
Evidence
Clinical RCT (Limited)
Research
Phase II cartilage trials (Arthrogen); FDA approved IC only
Dosing
Range
100 mg TID (oral); 2 mg/kg IM (injection)
Frequency
3× daily (oral); weekly (IM)
Route
Oral · Intramuscular
Cycling
Continuous oral for IC; injectable orthopedic cycles vary.
Benefits
- ·Bladder pain relief in IC
- ·Possible joint/cartilage support
- ·Anti-inflammatory
Risks
- ·Macular pigment changes with chronic oral use
- ·Bleeding risk (anticoagulant)
- ·Alopecia
Contraindications
- ·Active bleeding disorders
- ·Pregnancy
- ·Retinal disease (caution)
Regulatory
FDA-Approved for IC; veterinary approved; off-label orthopedic use
Functional Groups
Cited Works
- Anger JT et al. Pentosan polysulfate sodium for interstitial cystitis. Cochrane Database. 2010.