Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: PENTOXIFYLLINE - ORAL (pen-tox-IF-ill-een)
BRAND NAME(S): Trental
Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
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 USE: 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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Peripheral Vascular Disease - Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) refers to diseases of the blood vessels (arteries and veins) located outside the heart and brain. PVD is sometimes referred to as peripheral artery disease. Symptoms include intermittent claudication, rest pain, numbness in the extremities and more.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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