Pentoxifylline

PENTOXIFYLLINE - ORAL (pen-tox-IF-ill-een)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Trental

USES: Pentoxifylline improves blood flow through the blood vessels. It is used to treat problems with blood circulation in the arms and legs (e.g., intermittent claudication).

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to prevent strokes, manage sickle cell disease, improve blood flow to the brain, improve effects of diabetes, or to treat nausea and headaches in high places (high-altitude sickness). This drug may also be used for other purposes as determined by your doctor.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is best taken with meals to prevent stomach upset. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them since they are designed to release the medication slowly. Take this exactly as prescribed. Try to take this medication at the same time(s) each day so you remember to take it. Do not stop taking this without your doctor's approval. It may take 8 to 12 weeks to notice the effects of this medication.

SIDE EFFECTS: Loss of appetite, nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, anxiety or blurred vision may occur at first as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: chest pain, confusion, difficulty breathing, rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your complete medical history before you take any medicine. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Because this medication appears in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding. It is best to avoid smoking because nicotine constricts blood vessels.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicine you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: medicine for high blood pressure, cimetidine (Tagamet for ulcers), "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include flushing, dizziness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, fever, agitation, and seizures.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.