Drugs A - Z
Cilostazol Oral tablet
A platelet aggregation inhibitor - It is used to treat the symptoms of intermittent claudication
Generic Name: cilostazol
Brand Names: Pletal
There is an FDA Alert for this drug.
Click here to view it.
What is this medicine?
CILOSTAZOL (sil OH sta zol) is used to treat the symptoms of intermittent claudication. This condition causes pain in the legs during walking, and goes away with rest. By improving blood flow, this medicine helps people with this condition walk longer distances without pain.This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:- bleeding disorder or hemophilia
- history of heart failure, heart attack, or other heart disease
- an unusual or allergic reaction to cilostazol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food. Do not take with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:- grapefruit juice
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
- agents that prevent or treat blood clots like enoxaparin or warfarin
- aspirin
- diltiazem
- erythromycin or clarithromycin
- omeprazole
- some medications for treating depression like fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, nefazodone
- some medications for treating fungal infections like ketoconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. It may take 2 to 4 weeks for your condition to start to get better once you begin taking this medicine. In some people, it can take as long as 3 months for the condition to get better.You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
Smoking may have effects on the circulation that may limit the benefits you receive from this medicine. You may wish to discuss how to stop smoking with your doctor or health care professional.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.
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