Pentosan Injection – Equine Joint Health Therapy

What It Is

• Active Ingredient: Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS).
• Formulation: Sterile injectable solution (commonly 100–250 mg/ml).
• Drug Class: Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG)‑like compound.
• Purpose: Controls clinical signs of osteoarthritis in horses.

Key Benefits

• Anti‑Inflammatory: Reduces joint swelling and pain.
• Cartilage Protection: Stimulates cartilage synthesis and slows breakdown.
• Improved Mobility: Helps restore gait and reduce lameness.
• Long‑Term Relief: Benefits may persist for weeks to months.

Functions & Applications

• Equine Athletes: Used in racehorses and sport horses with hock, fetlock, or stifle arthritis.
• Joint Disease Management: Treats osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, and lameness.
• Alternative to Steroids/NSAIDs: Provides joint support without the gastric risks of NSAIDs.

Administration

• Route: Intramuscular (IM) injection.
• Dosage: Zycosan is typically given as a single IM dose of 500 mg (2 ml vial at 250 mg/ml).
• Treatment Plan: Some veterinarians use repeated weekly injections for 4 weeks, depending on severity.

Safety & Compliance

• Veterinary Supervision Required: Prescription‑only medicine.
• Side Effects: Rare, but may include injection site swelling or mild colic.
• Withdrawal Periods: Must comply with racing regulations.
• FDA Approval: Zycosan is the first FDA‑approved pentosan injection for horses