Peptide Reference
Pentosan Polysulfate
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium
A semi-synthetic polysulfated xylan with structural similarity to glycosaminoglycans. Used clinically for interstitial cystitis and osteoarthritis, with emerging applications in tissue repair.
Status
approved
Category
healing
Typical cost
$200-400/month (oral prescription)
Mechanism
Replenishes glycosaminoglycan layer on bladder epithelium, provides protective coating for damaged cartilage, reduces inflammatory cytokines, and promotes tissue repair through growth factor stimulation.
Potential benefits
- Bladder pain relief
- Cartilage protection
- Reduced joint inflammation
- Improved joint function
- Tissue healing support
Reported side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Hair loss (rare)
- Retinal pigment changes (rare with long-term use)
- Headache
Common dosing references
oral
100mg · 3x daily
3-6 months
subcutaneous
2mg/kg · Weekly
6-12 weeks
Research notes
Pentosan polysulfate in osteoarthritis
2016
Demonstrated significant improvement in joint pain and function compared to placebo
Elmiron for interstitial cystitis
1996
FDA approval based on significant reduction in bladder pain and urinary frequency
Regulatory and sourcing notes
FDA-approved (Elmiron) for interstitial cystitis. Available by prescription. Compounded versions available for osteoarthritis.
Prescription medication (Elmiron) or compounded injectable. Requires physician oversight.
Find peptide-aware clinics
Use location pages to compare clinics with peptide therapy signals and verify clinical oversight before treatment.