From the Research
Sulodexide treatment for venous insufficiency typically lasts 3 to 6 months, though some patients may benefit from longer courses, as evidenced by the most recent study 1. The standard dosing regimen is 250-500 LSU (lipasemic units) twice daily, often with an initial intensive phase of 600 LSU daily for 30 days followed by 500 LSU daily for maintenance.
- Treatment should begin with oral administration, though some protocols start with intramuscular injections for 15-20 days before transitioning to oral therapy.
- Patients should take the medication on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
- Clinical improvement, including reduced leg pain, swelling, and heaviness, is usually observed within 2-4 weeks. Sulodexide works by restoring endothelial glycocalyx, improving venous tone, and reducing inflammation in vessel walls, as shown in the study 2.
- It has anticoagulant and profibrinolytic properties that help improve microcirculation.
- Treatment duration may need adjustment based on symptom improvement, disease severity, and individual patient factors, so regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended to assess response and determine the optimal duration of therapy. The most recent and highest quality study 1 supports the use of sulodexide for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, with significant improvements in symptom severity and quality of life.
- The study found that sulodexide was associated with decreased symptom severity in 56.4% of patients and a decreased number of symptoms in 42.8%.
- The highest rate of CVD symptom regression was observed in patients aged 30-40 years.
- A significant positive correlation was found between sulodexide efficacy and treatment duration, and the use of capsules during follow-up.