Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Pentoxifylline is prescribed to enhance blood flow in individuals experiencing circulation issues, thereby alleviating symptoms like aching, cramping, and fatigue in the hands and feet. Its mechanism involves reducing the viscosity, or thickness, of blood. This modification facilitates smoother blood flow, particularly in the narrow blood vessels of the extremities.
Uses and Dosage
Pentoxifylline is typically administered as an extended-release tablet, to be taken orally. The usual dosage regimen involves taking it three times a day.
Swallow the tablets whole and avoid breaking, crushing, or chewing them.
Take pentoxifylline precisely as directed by your healthcare provider, avoiding both overuse and underuse.
While you may start noticing the effects of this medication within 2 to 4 weeks, it may take up to 8 weeks to experience its full benefits.
Pentoxifylline helps manage the symptoms associated with circulation problems but doesn’t provide a cure. Continue taking pentoxifylline even if you start feeling better. Never discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- gas
- dizziness
- headache
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- chest pain
- fast heartbeat
- bloody or tarry stools
- coughing up blood
- vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Caution
- Before starting pentoxifylline, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, especially if you’re allergic to pentoxifylline itself, caffeine, or theophylline. Inactive ingredients in the medication could also trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Provide your medical history to your healthcare provider before using this medication, particularly if you’ve recently experienced a stroke, bleeding in the eye, kidney problems, liver problems, recent major surgery, or have a stomach ulcer.
- Pentoxifylline may rarely cause dizziness. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you. Alcohol or marijuana can enhance dizziness caused by pentoxifylline.
- If you’re pregnant, pentoxifylline should only be used when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Trental ER is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Trental ER extended-release tablet:
- 400 mg
FAQ
How long does Trental ER take to work?
You should see an improvement in your symptoms within 2 to 4 weeks after starting Trental ER.
Does Trental ER lower blood pressure?
Low blood pressure isn’t a common side effect of Trental ER. In studies, less than 1% of people reported experiencing low blood pressure after taking this medication.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/pentoxifylline/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/pentoxifylline-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065425?
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5022/pentoxifylline-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a685027.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/pentoxifylline.html#side-effects
