Ptochoprodromus wrote many pieces for a widespread circle of patrons at the imperial court. Some of his creations that have emerged present the figure of an author in reduced circumstances, with a marked propensity for begging, and who was in close touch with the ruling court circles during the reigns of John II (1118–43) and Manuel I (1143–80).
Prodromus' writings, which were often produced on the occasion of some public event, provide historians with information about many aspects of contemporary history; both at home and abroad, including details about the genealogy of individual personalities, and on everyday social and economic life.
There was a strongly satirical element in his works, which ranged from epigrams and dialogues to letters and occasional pieces in both prose and verse. He had a strong sense of humor, and his comments are said to be shrewd and pithy.