Cilostazol tablets

About cilostazol

Cilostazol is used to treat intermittent claudication. This is a cramping pain that develops in the lower leg when you walk and is due to poor circulation. Vasodilators like cilostazol increase the distance you can walk before the pain develops.

Cilostazol works in two ways. It increases blood flow by widening the blood vessels of the affected areas and it also reduces the clotting activity of blood cells called platelets. Cilostazol is prescribed by specialist doctors when it is not possible to improve the symptoms of intermittent claudication by other means.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking cilostazol it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you have a heart condition or high blood pressure.

• Si tienes niveles altos de azúcar en la sangre (diabetes mellitus).

• If you know you are at risk of bleeding - for example, if you have a stomach ulcer or if you have had surgery recently.

• Si tienes algún problema con el funcionamiento de tu hígado o de tus riñones.

• Si estás embarazada o amamantando.

• Si está tomando otros medicamentos. Esto incluye cualquier medicamento que esté tomando y que esté disponible para comprar sin receta, así como medicamentos herbales y complementarios.

• Si alguna vez has tenido una reacción alérgica a un medicamento.

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. It will give you more information about cilostazol and will provide you with a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Take the tablets exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is usual to take one tablet twice a day, in the morning and evening. The usual strength of tablet is 100 mg, although a lower strength of tablet may be appropriate at times if you are also taking certain other medicines. Your doctor will tell you which is the right strength for you, and this will also be printed on the label of the pack of tablets to remind you.

• Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Ideally, you should take the tablets 30 minutes before meals. If this is not possible, wait until two hours afterwards.

• If you forget to take a dose, don't worry, just remember to take your next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress and assess how cilostazol is working for you.

• If you are a smoker, you should try to stop. 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 your 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 will advise you on what type of exercise is suitable for you.

• Try to 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.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with cilostazol.

Encontrará una lista completa en el prospecto del fabricante que se suministra con su medicamento.

Los efectos no deseados a menudo mejoran a medida que su cuerpo se adapta al nuevo medicamento, pero hable con su médico o farmacéutico si alguno de los siguientes persiste o se vuelve problemático.

Importante: cilostazol has been associated with blood disorders in a few people. If you experience any bruising or bleeding, or if you develop a sore throat or a high temperature, you should let your doctor know straightaway so that your blood can be checked.

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

• Mantenga todos los medicamentos fuera del alcance y la vista de los niños.

• Almacenar en un lugar fresco y seco, lejos del calor y la luz directos.