Pentoxifylline

Pentoxifylline is a prescribed medicine used for increasing circulation in adults who have peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It comes in the form of an extended-release tablet and is taken three times a day. Taking this drug with food helps aid in absorption of the medicine and also helps reduce side effects. Although most people tolerate the drug well, side effects may occur and can include nausea and vomiting.

What Is Pentoxifylline?

Pentoxifylline (Trental®) is a prescription medication approved to reduce the viscosity (thickness) of the blood and improve blood flow. It is used to increase circulation in people with peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
 
(Click What Is Pentoxifylline Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, pentoxifylline can cause side effects.
 However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well.
 
Common side effects of pentoxifylline include but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting.
     
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
(Click Side Effects of Pentoxifylline to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Pamela Schoenen, PharmD candidate
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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