What is Pletal (Cilostazol)?
Pletal widens arteries that supply blood to the legs. Pletal also improves circulation by keeping platelets in the blood from sticking together and clotting. Pletal is used to treat the symptoms of intermittent claudication. This condition causes reduced blood flow to the legs, leading to pain while walking. Pletal improves your ability to walk longer distances without pain. Pletal may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How should I take Pletal (cilostazol)?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Pletal is usually taken twice a day, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after breakfast or dinner. Take cilostazol at the same times each day. Follow your doctor"s instructions. It may take up to 12 weeks of using cilostazol before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Store cilostazol at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
What should I avoid while taking Pletal (cilostazol)?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with cilostazol. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
Pletal (cilostazol) side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
* severe headache;
* bloody urine, painful urination;
* fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
* chest pain;
* feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion; or
* swelling of your ankles or feet.
Less serious side effects may include:
* fast or pounding heartbeats;
* diarrhea, vomiting;
* weakness, dizziness;
* leg cramps;
* numbness or tingling;
* joint pain; or
* cough, runny or stuffy nose.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
