Cilostazol 50 mg tablet

Need information on Cilostazol 50 mg tablets? This guide provides clear, concise details. We’ll cover key aspects to help you understand its use and potential effects.

Cilostazol 50 mg is a prescription medication primarily used to improve blood flow in the legs and feet for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). This improves walking distance and reduces claudication (leg pain during exercise). Remember, always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency.

Potential side effects include headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. Severe side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These may include chest pain or shortness of breath. Discuss any concerns with your physician before starting treatment.

Interactions with other medications are possible. Inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, you’re currently taking. This helps prevent potential complications.

This information aims to provide a helpful overview. It does not replace consultation with a healthcare professional. Always discuss your specific medical situation and potential treatment options with your doctor or pharmacist before using Cilostazol or any other medication.

Cilostazol 50 mg Tablet: A Detailed Overview

Cilostazol 50 mg tablets treat intermittent claudication, a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This medication improves blood flow to your legs and reduces pain during walking.

Take Cilostazol exactly as prescribed. A common dosage is one 50 mg tablet twice daily, taken with food. Always follow your doctor’s instructions; never adjust your dosage without consulting them.

Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, and nausea. These are usually mild and temporary. Severe side effects are rare but include shortness of breath and chest pain. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these.

Before starting Cilostazol, inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. This is crucial to avoid potential drug interactions.

Cilostazol may not be suitable for everyone. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with heart conditions, or those with a history of serious bleeding should discuss the risks with their physician before starting treatment.

Possible Side Effect	Frequency	Action
Headache	Common	Usually resolves on its own. Talk to your doctor if persistent.
Diarrhea	Common	Drink plenty of fluids. Inform your doctor if severe.
Nausea	Common	Take with food. Consider smaller, more frequent meals.
Shortness of Breath	Rare	Seek immediate medical attention.
Chest Pain	Rare	Seek immediate medical attention.

Regular check-ups with your doctor are recommended to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed. This ensures the medication remains effective and safe for you.

Remember, this information is for general knowledge and should not replace advice from your doctor or other healthcare professional. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

What is Cilostazol and How Does it Work?

Cilostazol is a medication primarily used to improve blood flow in the legs and feet. It achieves this by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase III (PDE III).

Mechanism of Action

By inhibiting PDE III, cilostazol increases levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). This increase in cAMP leads to several beneficial effects:

• Vasodilation: Cilostazol relaxes blood vessels, widening them and improving blood flow.
• Platelet Aggregation Inhibition: It reduces the tendency of blood platelets to clump together, thus preventing blood clots.
• Improved Walking Distance: These combined effects translate to a greater ability to walk without pain in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Specific Effects and Considerations

Cilostazol’s impact is primarily focused on improving symptoms of PAD, such as intermittent claudication (leg pain during exercise). While it improves blood flow, it does not repair damaged blood vessels. Therefore, lifestyle modifications remain crucial.

Dosage and Administration

A typical dose is 50 mg twice daily, taken orally. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs and health status.

Potential Side Effects

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Dizziness

Remember to report any unusual symptoms to your physician. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from a healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication.

Drug Interactions

1. Cilostazol can interact with other medications. Discuss all medications you are taking with your doctor.
2. Particular caution is needed with patients taking certain heart medications or those with a history of heart failure.

Cilostazol 50 mg Tablet: Indications and Uses

Cilostazol 50 mg tablets primarily treat intermittent claudication, a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This means the medication helps improve walking ability in patients with PAD by increasing blood flow to the legs.

Specifically, Cilostazol works by inhibiting platelet aggregation and vasodilation, thus improving blood flow. This leads to a noticeable reduction in claudication symptoms and improves overall quality of life for many patients.

Beyond intermittent claudication, Cilostazol may also be prescribed for stroke prevention in patients with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), although this use is dependent on physician assessment and specific patient factors.

Important Note: Cilostazol is not a cure for PAD or stroke, but rather a treatment to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications. Always consult your doctor to determine if Cilostazol is the right treatment for you and to discuss potential side effects.

Remember: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any adverse reactions immediately.

Dosage and Administration Guidelines

Begin with a 50 mg dose once daily. Take Cilostazol with a meal to minimize potential stomach upset.

Adjusting the Dose

Your doctor may adjust your dosage based on your response to treatment and overall health. They might increase it to 100 mg once daily, administered in two divided doses (50 mg twice daily), but always follow their specific instructions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Special Considerations

Patients with hepatic impairment require dose adjustments. Your physician will determine the appropriate dose for your specific condition. Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping Cilostazol, especially if you have other health concerns or take other medications. Regular monitoring of your condition is recommended. Follow all instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

Specific Instructions

Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Consistent adherence to the prescribed regimen is vital for optimal therapeutic outcome.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Cilostazol can cause headaches, diarrhea, and nausea. These are usually mild and subside as your body adjusts. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately. More serious, though rare, side effects include irregular heartbeat and bleeding. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, chest pain, or unusual bleeding.

Specific Considerations

Before starting Cilostazol, inform your doctor about any existing heart conditions, especially if you have a history of heart failure or unstable angina. Similarly, disclose any bleeding disorders or if you are taking blood thinners. Cilostazol may interact negatively with some medications, so providing a complete list of your current prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs is crucial. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are also important factors to discuss; your doctor can advise on the best course of action.

Monitoring and Follow-up

Regular check-ups with your physician are necessary to monitor your response to Cilostazol. Your doctor will likely perform blood tests to check for any adverse effects. Always report any new or unusual symptoms you experience while taking this medication. This close monitoring ensures you are receiving the best possible care and helps to minimize potential risks.

Drug Interactions: What to Avoid

Avoid combining Cilostazol with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, or clarithromycin. These medications can significantly increase Cilostazol levels, raising the risk of side effects.

Similarly, concurrent use with platelet inhibitors like clopidogrel or aspirin may increase bleeding risk. Monitor closely for any signs of unusual bleeding.

Warfarin interaction warrants caution. Cilostazol may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, necessitating careful monitoring of your INR (International Normalized Ratio).

Grapefruit juice inhibits CYP3A4, thus increasing Cilostazol’s blood levels. Refrain from consuming grapefruit juice while taking this medication.

Inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, you are taking. This allows for proper assessment of potential interactions and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.

Cilostazol and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

Cilostazol use during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration. The FDA categorizes cilostazol as pregnancy category C, meaning animal studies have shown adverse effects, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, doctors generally advise against using cilostazol during pregnancy unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. This decision should be made on a case-by-case basis after a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition.

Pregnancy

• Consider alternative treatments with a more established safety profile during pregnancy.
• Discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor before taking cilostazol.
• Regular monitoring of fetal development may be necessary if cilostazol use is unavoidable.

Breastfeeding

Limited data exists on cilostazol excretion in breast milk. While it’s believed that only small amounts may be present, the potential risk to the nursing infant is uncertain. A cautious approach is warranted.

Recommendations

1. Inform your doctor about your pregnancy or breastfeeding plans before starting cilostazol.
2. Explore alternative treatment options during pregnancy and breastfeeding whenever possible.
3. If cilostazol use is unavoidable, carefully monitor the infant for any adverse effects.
4. Consult with a healthcare professional experienced in managing pregnant and breastfeeding patients taking medications.

Further Information

Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your medication and your health.

Storage and Disposal of Cilostazol Tablets

Store Cilostazol tablets at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Protect them from moisture and light.

Discard any unused Cilostazol tablets after the expiration date printed on the bottle. Never flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain.

Safe Disposal Methods

Several safe disposal options exist. You can utilize a medicine take-back program in your community. Check with your local pharmacy or government agency for details on the nearest location. Alternatively, you can mix the tablets with an undesirable substance, like used coffee grounds or kitty litter, to make them less appealing before discarding them in a sealed bag in the household trash.

Important Considerations Regarding Disposal

Always follow local regulations when disposing of medications. If you have children or pets, extra care should be taken to ensure they cannot access discarded medications.

Safe Storage Practices

Aspect	Recommendation
Temperature	Room temperature (68-77°F or 20-25°C)
Light Exposure	Protect from direct sunlight
Moisture	Keep away from moisture
Container	Keep in original container with tightly closed lid

Cost and Availability of Cilostazol 50 mg

The price of Cilostazol 50 mg tablets varies significantly depending on your location, insurance coverage, and the pharmacy you use. Generic versions are usually cheaper than brand-name options. Expect to find price differences between online pharmacies and brick-and-mortar stores as well.

Finding the Best Price

To find the most affordable option, consider these strategies:

• Compare prices online: Many online pharmacies list prices; compare several to see the range.
• Check your insurance: Your insurance plan might cover Cilostazol, potentially lowering your out-of-pocket cost. Confirm coverage and copay details with your provider.
• Use a prescription discount card: Several companies offer discount cards that can reduce the cost of medications, including Cilostazol. Explore different cards to compare savings.
• Explore manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs: Check the manufacturer’s website for potential savings programs. These programs may offer financial assistance to eligible patients.
• Consider generic options: Generic versions of Cilostazol are generally less expensive. Ask your pharmacist if a generic alternative is available.

Availability

Cilostazol 50 mg tablets are generally readily available in most countries. However, supply may occasionally be affected by manufacturing or distribution issues.

1. Contact your local pharmacy: The simplest way to check availability is by contacting your local pharmacy directly. They can inform you whether they currently stock the medication.
2. Use online pharmacy finders: Some websites allow you to search for pharmacies that carry specific medications in your area. This can be helpful if your local pharmacy is out of stock.
3. Consider alternative pharmacies: If one pharmacy doesn’t have Cilostazol, try another. Switching pharmacies could save you money and ensure timely access to your medication.

Remember to always consult your doctor or pharmacist before making any changes to your medication regimen. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and circumstances.

When to Consult a Doctor Regarding Cilostazol Use

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat. These could be signs of serious heart problems.

Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention

Seek medical advice if you notice any significant side effects, including persistent headaches, dizziness, nausea, or stomach upset that doesn’t improve. Report unusual bleeding or bruising, as well as any skin rashes or allergic reactions.

Medication Interactions and Adjustments

Inform your physician about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Cilostazol can interact with other drugs. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe alternative treatments if needed. Discuss any changes in your health condition, such as new illnesses or worsening symptoms. Regular check-ups are recommended to monitor the drug’s effectiveness and to address potential side effects.

Changes in Your Condition

Schedule a consultation if your symptoms don’t improve after several weeks of taking Cilostazol, or if they worsen. Your doctor may need to reassess your treatment plan.