Zycosan (pentosan)
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Pentosan polysulfate sodium for degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis in horses; chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) injectable. Mechanism: semi-synthetic sulphated polysaccharide — inhibits degradative enzymes (MMPs, elastase, PLA2) in synovial fluid; stimulates chondrocyte proteoglycan synthesis; anti-coagulant (heparin-like); improves synovial fluid viscosity and microcirculation. Chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory for equine OA.
Key information
Pentosan polysulfate sodium — disease-modifying osteoarthritis agent. Subcutaneous injection series. Store at room temperature. Monitor for coagulopathy.
How to Give this Medication
IM injection: inject deep IM. Standard protocol: 500 mg IM twice weekly for 4 weeks. Intra-articular: strict aseptic technique required. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
IM injection site reactions (pain, swelling — common). Mild anticoagulant effect (heparin-like — monitor in surgical patients or those on anticoagulants). Rare: hypersensitivity reactions. Generally well tolerated.
Precautions
For animals
Mild anticoagulant properties — use with caution in horses with coagulopathy or concurrent anticoagulants. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. Post-injection rest recommended.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. PSGAG injectable — wear gloves. Injectable — administered by veterinary staff only. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. If accidentally self-injected, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Pentosan polysulfate overdose may increase bleeding. Administered by veterinary staff.
Zycosan (pentosan) dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZYCOSAN (PENTOSAN) 250MG/ML | 250 MG/ML | — | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)