Before taking cilostazol

Before taking cilostazol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have been told you have heart failure or heart rhythm problems.
• If you have diabetes mellitus.
• If you have a stomach ulcer.
• If you have had any surgery in the past three months.
• If you have had a stroke in the past six months.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take cilostazol

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
• Take cilostazol exactly as your doctor has told you. It is usually taken twice a day.
• Cilostazol should be taken either 30 minutes before or two hours after your breakfast and evening meal.
• Try to take cilostazol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not smoke. Smoking can narrow your blood vessels further and will make your condition worse. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you about how to quit smoking.
• Keep your home warm. The cold cuts down the blood supply to the skin even before you feel cold. If you go out in the cold, wrap up well in warm clothing, especially gloves and socks.
• Regular exercise will help to improve your circulation. Your doctor can advise you on the type of exercise suitable for you.
• Take good care of your hands and feet. Examine your hands, legs and feet regularly for any signs of damage or infection. If you notice any changes, see your doctor.
• It may take some time for cilostazol to work (up to 12-24 weeks of treatment). However if you feel that this medicine is not working for you, make an appointment to see your doctor.
• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking cilostazol.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with cilostazol.

Can cilostazol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store cilostazol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Pletal® 100 mg tablets, Otsuka Pharmaceuticals (UK) Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2009.
• British National Formulary; 61st Edition (March 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)