Pentoxifylline (By Mouth)

Pentoxifylline (pen-tox-I-fi-leen)

Treats problems from poor blood circulation by improving the flow of blood through blood vessels.

Brand Name(s):

Trental, Pentoxil, Pentopak
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pentoxifylline or to related drugs, such as theophylline or caffeine. You should not use this medicine if you have had recent retina (eye) surgery.

How to Use This Medicine:

Long Acting Tablet

 
• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.  
• Swallow tablets whole.  
• Take your medicine with meals to avoid stomach upset.

If a dose is missed:

 
• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.  
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose  
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

 
• Store at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.  
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

 
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Coumadinreg;.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

 
• Check with your doctor before taking pentoxifylline if you have liver or kidney disease.  
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.  
• You may need to take this medicine for several weeks before it starts to help.  
• Avoid smoking or using other tobacco products, because nicotine narrows your blood vessels and can make your pain worse.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

 
• Chest pain  
• Irregular heartbeat.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

 
• Nausea, indigestion, vomiting  
• Dizziness  
• Headache

Drugs & Medications

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.