Tissue RepairModerate Evidence

Pentosan Polysulfate

Also known as: PPS, Elmiron

Semi-synthetic polysaccharide that protects and repairs cartilage in osteoarthritis and joint disorders.

Benefits

Conditions

Evidence

Multiple preclinical studies, clinical trials in equine and human OA+ studies

Source

Semi-synthetic derivative from beechwood hemicellulose

Gabriel Brain Score

Moderate

Overview

Semi-synthetic polysaccharide that protects and repairs cartilage in osteoarthritis and joint disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Stimulates proteoglycan synthesis and incorporation into cartilage ECM, inhibits MMP-3 and other degradative enzymes, enhances TIMP-3 levels, reduces inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, TNF-α), improves subchondral bone blood flow, exhibits mild antithrombotic and fibrinolytic activity.

Key Benefits

✓Protects cartilage from degradation
✓Stimulates cartilage matrix production
✓Reduces joint inflammation
✓Improves synovial fluid quality
✓Enhances joint nutrition and microcirculation
✓Reduces pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis

Clinical Applications

Osteoarthritis (knee, hip, other joints)Interstitial cystitisDegenerative joint diseasePost-traumatic arthritisCartilage injuries

Dosing Guidelines

Intramuscular injection

Typical Dose100-300 mg

FrequencyOnce or twice weekly

Duration4-8 weeks initial course

Oral (for interstitial cystitis)

Typical Dose100 mg three times daily

FrequencyThree times daily

DurationLong-term maintenance

* Dosing should be individualized. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Research & Evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Studies

Multiple preclinical studies, clinical trials in equine and human OA

Summary

FDA approved for interstitial cystitis. Strong preclinical evidence for cartilage protection. Human clinical trials show benefit for knee OA with good safety profile.

Safety Information

Potential Side Effects

•Injection site pain
•Mild bleeding risk
•Gastrointestinal upset
•Hair loss (rare)
•Retinal pigmentary changes (long-term oral use)

Contraindications

Bleeding disorders
Active gastric ulcers
Severe hepatic or renal impairment

Interactions

⚠Anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)
⚠Aspirin and NSAIDs

Quick Facts

CategoryTissue Repair

SourceSemi-synthetic derivative from beechwood hemicellulose

Legal StatusFDA approved for interstitial cystitis; off-label for osteoarthritis

Gabriel Brain Score

75/ 100

Source Your Protocol

Our preferred peptide partner offers lab-tested, COA-verified peptides with optional physician oversight. Sourced from US-regulated facilities.

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