Cilostazol Side Effects, Brand Names, Uses and Mechanism Of Action
Cilostazol is a prescription medication available as a generic medication and under the brand name drug Pletal. In this short article, we outline the uses, brand names, dosage, side effects, warnings, and interactions of cilostazol. Learn more about this antiplatelt medication used to improve blood flow and treat cardiovascular conditions.
What Is Cilostazol?
Cilostazol is an antiplatelet, vasilating drug that can be used to treat blood flow problems in the legs. It works by enabling patients with blood flow challenges to walk longer without experiencing pain in their legs.
Cilostazol Side Effects
Taking cilostazol can result in the appearance of a number of side effects. Many of these side effects, however, are relatively mild and should disappear within a few days.
Common Side Effects
The common side effects of cilostazol include the following:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausesa
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Easy bruising
- Unusual bleeding
If these side effects are mild, they should disappear within a few days. If side effects persist, talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional.
Serious Side Effects
Other side effects of cilostazol are more serious and may require medical attention. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects. Call 911 if you think your symptoms may be life-threatening.
- Chest tightnes
- Decreased urine output
- Swelling of face, feet, legs, arms, fingers.
- Weight gain
- Trouble breathing
- Extreme fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
- Vomit
-Bloody or black stools
- Painful urination
- Bloody urination
- Body aches
- Flu symptoms
Disclaimer: Here at Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.
Cilostazol Brand Names
Cilostazol is available as a generic drug and as the following brand name medications:
- Pletal
Cilostazol Pronunciation
To pronounce cilostazol, sound out the following syllables:
Suh - laa - stuh - zaal
Cilostazol Mechanism Of Action
The mechanism of action of cilostazol enables it to inhibit platelet aggregation caused by collagen, epinephrine, and arachidonic acid. Unlike many other medications of its king, cilostazol not only inhibits platelet function, it also improves endothelial cell function. Endothelial cells control vascular relaxation and blood flow throughout the body.
Uses Of Cilostazol
Cilostazol is used to reduce the symptoms of certain blood flow problems in the legs. It helps alleviate the symptoms of intermediate claudication, pain affecting the calves and legs induced by exercise and injury.
Before Taking Cilostazol
Talk to your doctor if you have experienced heart failure of any kind, or any of the following conditions:
- Unusual bleeding
- Liver or kidney problems
- Heart attack or stroke
- If you smoke
How To Take Cilostazol
Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor or other healthcare professional. Cilostazol is usually taken twice a day at least 30 minutes before or after breakfast and dinner.
Cilostazol Dosage
Your dosage of cilostazol can vary depending on the following
- Medication
- Treatment type
- Health conditions
- Response to initial treatment.
Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take before you begin treatment.
Cilostazol Dosage For Circulation Problems
Adult: 100mg twice a day, taken at least 30 minutes before and two hours after breakfast and dinner.
Cilostazol Warnings
Cilostazol can cause significant heart problems in some individuals. Talk to your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms of serious heart conditions:
- Decreased urine output
- Dilated neck veins
- Extreme fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
- Swelling
- Trouble breathing
Interactions Of Cilostazol
Drug interactions can inhibit the effectiveness and increase side effects of cilostazol. Do not take any of the following medications in conjunction with cilostazol without first consulting a doctor.
- Blood thinners
- Antiplatelet drugs
- Warfarin
- Heparin
- Tipranavir
Bleeding Interaction
Taking cilostazol in conjunction with antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin and clopidogrel can cause dangerous, excessive bleeding. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and talk to them before taking antiplatelet drugs.
Cilostazol Side Effects, Brand Names, Uses and Mechanism Of Action: Summary
Cilostazol is a prescription medication available as a generic medication and under the brand name drug Pletal. It is an antiplatelet, vasilating drug that can be used to treat blood flow problems in the legs.
