Pentoxifylline

Introduction

Pentoxifylline is an active ingredient used in medicines to promote blood circulation. Since pentoxifylline also has anti-inflammatory properties, certain inflammatory diseases can also be treated well with the active ingredient. Due to its effect as a blood circulation-promoting substance, pentoxifylline has a wide range of indications. It is used in peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD), circulatory disorders of the eyes or ear, dementia, or generally occurring peripheral circulatory disorders.

Effect

Pentoxifylline is said to have a circulation-promoting and anti-inflammatory effect. By inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase, the active ingredient has an indirect effect on the blood vessels, which dilate as a result. The coagulation of the blood should also be influenced and the blood should thus be made “thinner”. However, the effect of pentoxifylline as an agent that improves the flow properties of the blood is controversial, as no proof of efficacy has been provided to date. In addition to these blood circulation-promoting properties, pentoxifylline is also able to inhibit certain cells of the immune system and thus partially suppress the body’s own inflammatory reaction.

Side effects

As with most drugs, taking medication containing the active ingredient pentoxifylline can lead to undesirable side effects. These need not occur in everyone and can vary in type and severity. Side effects are often described which affect the gastrointestinal tract of the affected person.

Nausea, diarrhoea or vomiting may occur. Increased liver values are also possible. Cardiac arrhythmia has also been observed after taking pentoxifylline.

Allergic reactions, such as itching and an allergic rash, are possible but occur relatively rarely. Dizziness and headaches as well as an elevated temperature are frequent side effects of the active ingredient. Very rarely, sensations on the skin (tingling or similar), sleep disturbances, cramps and changes in the blood composition occur.

Dosage

There are different dosage forms and dosage options for the active ingredient pentoxifylline. The treating physician or pharmacist can best answer individual questions regarding the correct dosage. It is usual to take pentoxifylline several times a day, whereby the total daily dose is usually 1200mg of the active substance. An adjustment of the dosage in particularly old or young persons as well as in case of existing diseases of the kidney or liver function is possible. Even if undesirable side effects occur, a doctor should be consulted about any necessary dose adjustment.