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Cilostazol

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About cilostazol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as Peripheral vasodilators.

Vasodilators work by widening the blood vessels.

Cilostazol is used to treat intermittent claudication. This is a cramping pain that develops in the legs when you walk and is due to bad circulation. cilostazol relieves these symptoms by increasing the blood flow to the affected areas and reducing how much the blood clots. It increases the distance you can walk before pain develops.

Cilostazol is available in tablet form

It is also sometimes known as: Pletal. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

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 suffer from liver or kidney problems
if you suffer from uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure)
if you suffer from any kind of heart problem or peptic (stomach) ulcers
if you suffer from diabetes or retinopathy (damaged retina in the eye)
if you bruise or bleed easily
if you have had surgery in the past three months
if you have had blackouts or a stroke in the past
if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take cilostazol

Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
Take cilostazol exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you are taking cilostazol in divided doses, they should be taken in the morning and evening.
Cilostazol should be taken 30 minutes before, or two hours after, breakfast and evening meal.
Try to take this medicine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
If you miss a dose of cilostazol take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual times. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of cilostazol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicine (especially aspirin containing medicines), check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside cilostazol.
Cilostazol can cause dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
It may take some time for cilostazol to work (up to 16-24 weeks of treatment). If you feel that the medicine is not working, do not stop taking it. Make an appointment to see your doctor.
Do not smoke. Smoking can narrow your blood vessels further and will make your condition worse.
Keep your home warm. The cold cuts down the blood supply to the skin even before you feel cold. If you do 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 how much exercise and 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 consult your doctor.

Can cilostazol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. The chance of suffering side effects from this medicine are shown below. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Very Common (1 in 10 or more patients): Diarrhoea, headache.

Common (1 in 10 to 1 in 100 patients): Abnormal bruising, swelling including the face, dizziness, abnormal breathing, abnormal heart rhythm, chest pain, running nose, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, flatulence, rash, itching, lack of energy and strength, stomach problems.

Uncommon (1 in 100 to 1 in 1,000 patients): Anaemia, bleeding of the eye or nose, high blood glucose, sleepless nights, dizziness on standing, cough, allergic reaction.

Rare (1 in 1,000 to 1 in 10,000 patients): Bleeding time increased, kidney problems.

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual bleeding or bruising or skin rashes.

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store cilostazol

Keep out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
Do not keep any out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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