Pletal

Pletal

     * Generic Name: cilostazol
     * Brand Name: Pletal


     * What is cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * What are the possible side effects of cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * What is the most important information I should know about
       cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
       cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * How should I take cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * What happens if I miss a dose (Pletal)?
     * What happens if I overdose (Pletal)?
     * What should I avoid while taking cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * What other drugs will affect cilostazol (Pletal)?
     * Where can I get more information (Pletal)?

What is cilostazol (Pletal)?

   Cilostazol is a vasodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in
   your blood vessels to help them dilate (widen). Cilostazol dilates
   arteries that supply blood to your legs. Cilostazol also improves
   circulation by keeping platelets in the blood from sticking
   together and clotting.

   Cilostazol is used to treat the symptoms of intermittent
   claudication. This condition causes reduced blood flow to the legs,
   leading to pain while walking. Cilostazol improves your ability to
   walk longer distances without pain.

   Cilostazol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication
   guide.

What are the possible side effects of cilostazol (Pletal)?

   Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:
   hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or
   throat.

   Call your doctor at once if you have:
     * chest pain, pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;
     * a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
     * fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
     * bloody urine, painful urination;
     * shortness of breath, even with mild exertion; or
     * swelling of your ankles or feet.

   Common side effects may include:
     * headache, dizziness;
     * diarrhea, abnormal bowel movements;
     * upset stomach; or
     * runny nose.

   This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call
   your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side
   effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about cilostazol
(Pletal)?

   Do not take cilostazol if you have congestive heart failure.

   Pletal Patient Information including How Should I Take
   High Blood Pressure: Learn About Hypertension

   High Blood Pressure Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Take the Salt Quiz!
   Lowering Blood Pressure:Exercise Tips for Getting Started

   Lowering Blood Pressure Exercise Tips Pictures

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cilostazol
(Pletal)?

   Do not take cilostazol if you have congestive heart failure.
   Cilostazol can make this condition worse.

   To make sure cilostazol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
     * liver or kidney disease;
     * heart disease; or
     * if you smoke.

   It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell
   your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

   It is not known whether cilostazol passes into breast milk or if it
   could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this
   medicine.

How should I take cilostazol (Pletal)?

   Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this
   medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

   Cilostazol is usually taken twice a day on an empty stomach, at least
   30 minutes before or 2 hours after breakfast or dinner.

   Take the medicine at the same time each day.

   It may take up to 12 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the
   medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not
   improve after 4 weeks of treatment.

   Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

   Pletal Patient Information including If I Miss a Dose
   High Blood Pressure: Learn About Hypertension

   High Blood Pressure Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Take the Salt Quiz!
   Lowering Blood Pressure:Exercise Tips for Getting Started

   Lowering Blood Pressure Exercise Tips Pictures

What happens if I miss a dose (Pletal)?

   Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if
   it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra
   medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose (Pletal)?

   Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at
   1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking cilostazol (Pletal)?

   Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with cilostazol and
   lead to unwanted side effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products
   with your doctor.

What other drugs will affect cilostazol (Pletal)?

   Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medications at the same time.
   Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you take, which
   may increase side effects or make the medications less effective.

   Many drugs can interact with cilostazol. This includes prescription and
   over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all
   possible interactions are listed in this medication guide. Tell your
   doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or
   stop using.

Where can I get more information (Pletal)?

   Your pharmacist can provide more information about cilostazol.
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