Pentosan polysulphate sodium (PPS) is a prescription medication widely used by Australian veterinarians to treat osteoarthritis in dogs. Sold under brand names including Cartrophen Vet, Zydax, and Synovan, it is administered as a course of injections that stimulate cartilage repair and reduce joint inflammation.
How Pentosan Polysulphate Works
PPS works through several complementary mechanisms to protect and restore joint health:
- Cartilage protection: Inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage matrix, slowing the degenerative process
- Stimulates repair: Promotes the production of proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans, essential building blocks of healthy cartilage
- Improves blood flow: Enhances circulation to subchondral bone, supporting nutrient delivery to the joint
- Reduces inflammation: Modulates inflammatory mediators within the joint capsule
Standard Treatment Protocol
The typical course involves four subcutaneous injections at a dose of 3 mg per kilogram of body weight, administered at weekly intervals. For a 30 kg dog, each injection contains approximately 90 mg of pentosan polysulphate.
Many veterinarians recommend repeating the course every 3 to 6 months for ongoing joint maintenance. Some owners notice improvement after the second or third injection, with maximum benefit typically apparent 2 to 4 weeks after completing the course.
Cartrophen vs Zydax vs Synovan
These brand names all contain pentosan polysulphate sodium as the active ingredient. The primary differences are manufacturer, concentration, and price. Your veterinarian may prefer one brand based on their clinical experience, but the active compound and mechanism of action are the same across all three products.
Combining Pentosan with Natural Supplements
Pentosan polysulphate and green lipped mussel powder work through different but complementary pathways. While PPS stimulates cartilage repair from within, green lipped mussel provides ongoing anti-inflammatory support and essential building blocks for joint tissue.
Veterinarians commonly recommend this combination for the most comprehensive arthritis management. Joint Rejuvenate can be given daily between and during pentosan courses, providing continuous joint support that complements the periodic injection protocol.
This dual approach is particularly effective for middle-aged and older dogs where both cartilage repair and inflammation control are needed for optimal comfort and mobility.