Heparin-like polysaccharide that inhibits fibronectin and fibrinogen binding to cartilage surfaces, stimulates proteoglycan synthesis by chondrocytes, inhibits metalloproteinases, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Also used for idiopathic cystitis (bladder glycosaminoglycan layer restoration).
At a glance
Class
Semi-Synthetic Polysaccharide / Chondroprotective Agent
Storage
Injectable refrigerated 2–8°C; oral capsules at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Disease-modifying OA drug (DMOAD)
Route
SQ (Cartrophen), PO (Elmiron)
Frequency
Weekly x 4, then monthly (OA); q24h (cystitis)
Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) treatment — helps restore bladder glycosaminogl
Frequency
Weekly x 4 (OA); q24h (cystitis)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Pain/lameness scores monthlyCoagulation parameters in at-risk patientsUrinary signs (cystitis)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium?
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium is a semi-synthetic polysaccharide / chondroprotective agent used in pets. Heparin-like polysaccharide that inhibits fibronectin and fibrinogen binding to cartilage surfaces, stimulates proteoglycan synthesis by chondrocytes, inhibits metalloproteinases, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Also used for idiopathic cystitis (bladder glycosaminoglycan layer restoration).
›What is Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium used for in pets?
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium is used in veterinary medicine for: Disease-modifying OA drug (DMOAD); Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) treatment — helps restore bladder glycosaminogl.
›What is the Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium dose for dogs?
For dogs, Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium is typically dosed as follows — Disease-modifying OA drug (DMOAD): undefined undefined SQ (Cartrophen)/PO (Elmiron) Weekly x 4, then monthly (OA); q24h (cystitis). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium dose for cats?
For cats, Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium is typically dosed as follows — Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) treatment — helps restore bladder glycosaminogl: 3 mg/kg SQ/PO Weekly x 4 (OA); q24h (cystitis). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium need a prescription?
Yes. Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database