Experimental studies on the anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects of sodium and calcium pentosan polysulphate

In the present study we have compared the antithrombotic and anticoagulant properties of sodium and calcium derivatives of pentosan polysulphate (Na-PPS, Ca-PPS). The antithrombotic effect of these agents have been investigated in an experimental thrombosis model in which rat mesenteric venules diameter of 20-30 microm were injured by well defined Argon laser lesions. Furthermore, the in vivo and in vitro anticoagulant activities (aPTT, Heptest) of these agents have been studied. Thrombus formation was significantly inhibited after s.c. injection of Na-PPS and Ca-PPS in doses above 10 mg/kg. The duration of the antithrombotic effect lasted 8 h for Na-PPS and 12 h for Ca-PPS. After oral administration of Na-PPS an antithrombotic effect was not observed. Oral application of Ca-PPS in doses higher than 20 mg/kg significantly inhibited thrombus formation. Na-PPS and Ca-PPS markedly prolonged clotting time in aPTT and Heptest in concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 0.2 mg/ml rat PTT. Two h after s.c. administration of these agents in a dose 10 mg/kg, the aPTT increased 3-fold and Heptest 2.5-fold compared to controls. After oral application of 50 mg/kg Na-PPS and Ca-PPS no effect on coagulation test could be measured.