GENERIC NAME: pentoxifylline
BRAND NAME: Trental
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Pentoxifylline decreases the "stickiness" (viscosity) of blood and thereby improves its flow. This increase blood flow helps patients with peripheral arterial disease to obtain better circulation and oxygen delivery to vital tissues. Pentoxifylline is used in patients to treat a condition of painful legs that develop with exercise because of inadequate circulation to the legs and feet (intermittent claudication).
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PREPARATIONS: 400mg oral tablets.
STORAGE: Store in a dry place at 15-30 degrees C (59- 86 F), use a light resistant container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Pentoxifylline is used in patients with poor circulation of the limbs and that have intermittent claudication. Intermittent claudication causes pain in the leg when you walk. Although not approved for other use, it is often for circulation problems brought on by diabetes, sickle-cell anemia, Raynaud's syndrome, and other conditions.
DOSING: Pentoxifylline should be taken at doses specifically directed by the physician. Pentoxifylline may be taken with or without food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Pentoxifylline is not be used in patients who have had recent brain hemorrhage. This medication is a relative of caffeine and theophylline and should be used cautiously in patients sensitive to these substances.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pentoxifylline is relatively safe and doses not interact with many other drugs. Pentoxifylline, however, can interfere with blood clotting, especially if taken with the blood thinner Coumadin. Pentoxifylline has been associated rarely with nausea, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, drowsiness, and loss of appetite. Increased blood pressure can occur and blood pressure is monitored.
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