indication

For the treatment of thrombosis. Also investigated for use/treatment in diabetic kidney disease, and neuropathy (diabetic).

pharmacology

The low molecular weight of both sulodexide fractions allows for extensive oral absorption compared to unfractionated heparin. The pharmacological effects of sulodexide differ substantially from other glycosaminoglycans and are mainly characterized by a prolonged half-life and reduced effect on global coagulation and bleeding parameters. Due to the presence of both glycosaminoglycan fractions, sulodexide potentiates the antiprotease activities of both antithrombin III and heparin cofactor II simultaneously.

mechanism of action

Thrombin inhibition produced by sulodexide is due to the additive effect of its components, namely, heparin cofactor II (HCII) catalysis by dermatan sulfate and antithrombin-III catalysis by fast moving heparin (FMH).

absorption

Sulodexide is absorbed into the blood stream after oral dosing, the absorption rate being equivalent, either calculated from the fast-moving heparin fraction or from the dermatan fraction. Bioavailability following IM administration is approximately 90%.

half life

The elimination half-life was 11.7 +/- 2.0 h after intravenous administration, 18.7 +/- 4.1 h after 50 mg per os, and 25.8 +/- 1.9 h after 100 mg per os.