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.[1] Due to the presence of both glycosaminoglycan fractions, sulodexide potentiates the antiprotease activities of both antithrombin III and heparin cofactor II simultaneously.[2]
Uses
Clinically, sulodexide is used for the prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolic diseases. Research has also demonstrated the beneficial effects of sulodexide in animal models of reperfusion injury[3] and the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.[4][5][6]
In combination with melatonin, sulodexide has been shown to be a viable treatment option for patients suffering from central or sensorineural tinnitus.[7][8] There have also been positive results in treating tinnitus using sulodexide as a monotherapy.[9] Sulodexide has also been effectively used in the treatment of chronic venous disease.[10][11]
^Lauver DA, Booth EA, White AJ, Poradosu E, Lucchesi BR (February 2005). "Sulodexide attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and the deposition of C-reactive protein in areas of infarction without affecting hemostasis". The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. 312 (2): 794–800. doi:10.1124/jpet.104.075283. PMID15365091. S2CID9865911.
^Achour A, Kacem M, Dibej K, Skhiri H, Bouraoui S, El May M (2005). "One year course of oral sulodexide in the management of diabetic nephropathy". Journal of Nephrology. 18 (5): 568–574. PMID16299683.
^Skrha J, Perusicová J, Pont'uch P, Oksa A (October 1997). "Glycosaminoglycan sulodexide decreases albuminuria in diabetic patients". Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice. 38 (1): 25–31. doi:10.1016/S0168-8227(97)00076-4. PMID9347243.
^Neri G, Baffa C, De Stefano A, Poliandri A, Kulamarva G, Di Giovanni P, et al. (2009). "Management of tinnitus: oral treatment with melatonin and sulodexide". Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents. 23 (2): 103–110. PMID19589291.