Effects of different routes of administration and doses of Sulodexide on leukocyte-endothelium interaction and tissue perfusion on an animal model of low flow and high pressure in veins.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of different doses and routes of Sulodexide on leukocyte-endothelium interaction and tissue perfusion in a model of venous hypertension and low blood flow. METHODS: Six weeks after venous hypertension induction, through external iliac vein ligature male hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) received Sulodexide at 1, 2, or 4 mg/kg/day or saline (placebo) by subcutaneous or intramuscular routes during 2 or 4 weeks. After treatments, leukocyte rolling and adhesion, functional capillary density (FCD), and venular diameter were evaluated on the affected hindlimb. RESULTS: Subcutaneous and intramuscular treatments with Sulodexide after 2 and 4 weeks, significantly reduced leukocyte rolling and adhesion and increased FCD. Sulodexide did not affect venular diameter and intramuscular treatment was more effective in reducing leukocyte adhesion than the subcutaneous one. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study demonstrated that Sulodexide significantly decreased leukocyte-endothelium interaction and improved tissue perfusion in hamsters subjected to venous hypertension and low blood flow.