Description
Pentosan polysulfate us a semi-synthetic polysaccharide polymer which possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and chondroprotective properties.
These beneficial effects arise from:
1) Direct anti-inflammatory activity,
2) inhibition of neutrophil migration into joints,
3) stimulation of hyaluronic acid synthesis by synovial fibroblasts which results in a marked increase in synovial
volume and viscosity,=
4) stimulation of chondrocytes and the biosynthesis of proteoglycans
5) strong fibrinolytic activity which improves the circulation of subchondral bone and peri-articular structures.
Acetyl-Glucosamine (NAG) is a monosaccharide derivative of glucose and is a principal component of
glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Supplementation of NAG has been shown to help reduce synovitis and
chondrocyte damage.
Sodium Hyaluronate is the sodium salt of the GAG HA which forms proteoglycans in the matric of cartilage and
provides visco-elastic and lubricating properties to joint fluid. In joint disease, inflammation breaks down HA
which results in lowered viscosity of the joint fluid and further influx of inflammatory cells, exacerbating cartilage
damage and joint disease. Supplementation of HA helps to restore lubrication of the joint, reduce inflammatory
infiltrates and minimise ongoing damage.
Placebo controlled trial: This study was conducted by Professors McIlwraith and Dart at the University of Sydney.
Osteoarthritis was created in the carpal joints of 16 horses by the combination of surgical creation of a chip
fracture defect in their carpal joint and treadmill exercise. Horses were treated with nine weekly injections of
Pentosan Gold & HA or placebo. The horses were evaluated radiographically and for lameness during the study.
Cartilage and synovial membrane was evaluated histologically. Cartilage was evaluated for Glycosaminoglycan
and hydroxyproline content.
In joints with a chip, horses receiving Pentosan Gold & HA had lower radiographic scores (less degenerative
changes) and lower gross pathological scores (less pathology) compared to horses receiving saline. Cartilage
fibrillation score and chondrocyte cloning scores were affected in horses receiving Pentosan Gold & HA
supporting a chondroprotective effect. Intimal hyperplasia was reduced in the synovial membrane overlying the
chip in the horses treated with Pentosan Gold & HA supporting an anti-inflammatory effect. Overall the significant
findings show that Pentosan Gold & HA resulted in anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects.
Field Trials – In Australian trials of Pentosan GOLD® + Halo Injection, veterinarians reported “Good” to “Very
Good” response in 81% [67 of 83] of the osteoarthritic horses treated. Positive responses included improved gait,
extension, racing performance and attitude. Also reported were reductions in pain on flexion, stiffness, joint
effusion and soreness after racing.
When the responses to Pentosan GOLD® + Halo were rated in comparison to the horses’ previous treatments
with pentosan polysulfate and/or hyaluronic acid, 86% [63 of 73] were graded as “Better” or “Much Better”.
Intravenous Administration– A multi-dose safety study in horses has demonstrated the safety of Pentosan
GOLD & HA when administered intravenously. At normal dosage, mild induced elevation of aPTTT (activated
partial thromboplastin time – measure of coagulation) was returned to baseline levels by 8 hours after each
weekly injecton during the 6 week trial.
INDICATIONS
As an aid in the treatment of non-infectious inflammatory joint disease in horses.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
This product is supplied in vials for single use only. Unused portion should be discarded immediately after use.
Administer 4 mL/100 kg bodyweight (e.g. 20 mL/500 kg horse) intravenously once weekly for 4 weeks.
