Trental

Generic Name: Pentoxifylline

US Brand Name: Trental

Other Brand/Trade Names: Pentoxil, Pentoxin, Artal.

Uses

Pentoxifylline is used to improve blood flow in persons with bad circulation. This medication reduces aching, cramping, and tiredness in the hands and feet. Pentoxifylline works by decreasing the thickness (viscosity) of blood. This change allows your blood to flow more easily, especially in the small blood vessels of the hands and feet.

There are also other usage of this medication. It is successfully used for leg ulcers, strokes, high-altitude sickness, eye and ear disorders, and sickle cell disease.

Active Ingredients: Pentoxifylline

Inactive Ingredients: D&C Red No. 27 Aluminum Lake or FD&C Red No. 3, hypromellose USP, magnesium stearate NF, polyethylene glycol NF, povidone USP, talc USP, titanium dioxide USP.

Dosage and Forms

Pentoxifylline is available for oral administration as 400 mg pink film-coated oblong tablets. The usual dosage of Pentoxifylline is one tablet (400 mg) three times a day. Each dose should be taken with meal.

If an overdose is suspected seek medical attention. Symptoms of Pentoxifylline overdose include: agitation, fever, loss of consciousness, a flushed face, drowsiness and seizures.

Contraindications and Precautions

Here are several cases when Pentoxifylline should not be taken: severe arrhythmias, extensive retinal haemorrhage, cerebral haemorrhage. Pentoxifylline is contraindicated in allergic persons.

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 any of these effects persist or become bothersome, talk to your doctor.

Your health care professional should know immediately if you have chest pain, confusion, difficulty breathing, and rash. You may not be able taking this medication further.

Interactions

Pentoxifylline may increase the effects of anticoagulants. Therefore your dosage of anticoagulants drugs may have to be reduced or blood levels closely monitored. Tobacco also affects the way Pentoxifylline is acting in your system. Tobacco narrows your blood vessels. This way it decreases the beneficial effects of Pentoxifylline. Other drugs may also interact with Pentoxifylline. Consult your doctor before taking any other medication.