Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses

What is Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses?

As an FDA-approved prescription injectable, Zycosan is engineered to manage the clinical signs of osteoarthritis in horses. The active ingredient, Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium, works to modify the disease process within the joint, rather than just masking pain. Zycosan helps reduce lameness and improve overall mobility, helping performance horses and companions alike move with greater comfort.

Suitable for:

• Horses (with Osteoarthritis)

Benefits:

• Actively treats and controls the clinical signs of osteoarthritis (OA) and degenerative joint disease.
• Contains Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium, a heparin-like compound that supports the health of cartilage and joint fluid.
• Promotes the production of high-quality joint fluid (hyaluronic acid) and inhibits the enzymes that break down cartilage, slowing joint deterioration.
• Administered via a simple intramuscular (IM) injection once a week for four weeks, avoiding the need for invasive intra-articular joint injections.
• Specifically formulated and FDA-approved for horses to improve lameness scores and functional mobility associated with arthritis.

How does Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses work?

Zycosan works as a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug (DMOAD). It stimulates the synthesis of glucosaminoglycans (GAGs) and hyaluronic acid—the building blocks of healthy cartilage and joint lubrication. Simultaneously, it acts as an anti-inflammatory by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the proteolytic enzymes that physically destroy cartilage structure.

Caution:

Horses with hypersensitivity to pentosan polysulfate sodium or any of the inactive ingredients in Zycosan should not receive Zycosan. Do not use Zycosan concurrently with other anticoagulant drugs. Do not use in horses with clotting disorders or within 24 hours of surgical procedures.

How should I store this product?

Store at controlled room temperature. Do not freeze. Discard unused contents: The vials are single-dose and do not contain preservatives. Once a vial is punctured and the dose is withdrawn, any remaining solution must be thrown away.

What is the most important information I should know about Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses?

Zycosan is an FDA-approved injectable specifically for the control of clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis in horses. It acts as a weak anticoagulant (blood thinner), meaning it can cause your horse's blood to take longer to clot. Because of this, it requires careful timing around surgeries and strenuous exercise.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses to my pet?

Tell your vet if your horse has any known clotting or bleeding disorders. Discuss any upcoming surgeries (including castration or dental procedures), as treatment typically needs to be paused 24 hours before and after. Current Medications: Disclosure is critical, especially if your horse is on NSAIDs (like Bute or Banamine) or other anticoagulants (like aspirin or heparin).

How should Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses be given/administered?

Inject intramuscularly as prescribed.

What are the potential side effects of Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses?

Injection site reactions is the most common side effect and includes pain, heat, swelling, redness, or neck muscle cramping at the injection site. Other side effects include prolonged bleeding times (coagulation parameters), lethargy, depression, or behavioral changes (agitation, anxiety).

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses?

An overdose typically results in exaggerated side effects, particularly prolonged bleeding times, increased injection site reactions, and lethargy. If you suspect an overdose, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center for further advice. Animal poison control centers that are open 24 hours a day include ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) and Pet Poison HELPLINE (855764-7661); a consultation fee may be charged for these services.

What special precautions are there?

This drug is not for use in humans. It is a blood thinner; if you accidentally inject yourself, seek medical attention immediately. Because it thins the blood, caution is advised if using this drug before or after strenuous activity (racing, heavy training) to prevent excessive bleeding or exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH).

What should I avoid while giving Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses to my pet?

Avoid surgeries or dentistry within 24 hours of administration. Avoid strenuous exercise immediately surrounding the injection time if instructed by your vet. Avoid using the same needle for multiple injections; always use a fresh sterile needle and syringe.

What other drugs will affect Zycosan (Pentosan Polysulfate) Injection for Horses?

Do not use concurrently with other anticoagulants (heparin, warfarin, aspirin). Use caution when combining with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (like Phenylbutazone 'Bute' or Flunixin 'Banamine'), as this can increase the risk of bleeding. Corticosteroids: Use caution if combining with steroids (like dexamethasone), as they may interfere with clotting or healing.