II. Indications
III. Contraindications
- Recent major bleeding (Hemorrhagic CVA, Retinal Hemorrhage)
IV. Mechanism
- Methylxanthine derivative
- Inhibits phosphodiesterase, increasing cAMP levels within Red Blood Cells, Platelets, vascular endothelium
- Results in vasodilation and increased red cell flexibility, with secondary increased arterial perfusion
- Also inhibits Platelet aggregation
- Inhibits Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNFa) and Interferon-gamma and increases TH2 Cytokines
- Inhibits T-Helper 1 (Th1) inflammatory and autoimmune activity
V. Dosing
- Take 400 mg orally three times daily with meals
- May reduce to twice daily for significant adverse effects
-
Renal Insufficiency (GFR <30 ml/min)
- Reduce dose to 400 mg orally daily
VI. Efficacy
- Full effect may be delayed for 8 weeks after starting medication
- Claudication symptoms (myalgias, exertional pain) may persist despite increased perfusion
VII. Drug Interactions
- Increased bleeding risk
- Concurrent Anticoagulants, antiplatelet medications or NSAIDs
- Pentoxifylline increases levels of other medications
- Theophylline
- Warfarin with increased INR levels
- Other medications that increase Pentoxifylline levels
- Strong CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Ciprofloxacin, Fluvoxamine)
- Cimetidine
VIII. Safety
- Pregnancy Category C
- Unknown safety in Lactation
IX. Resources
X. References
- Hamilton (2020) Tarascon Pocket Pharmacopoeia
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Related Studies
| pentoxifylline (on 12/21/2022 at Medicaid.Gov Survey of pharmacy drug pricing) | ||
| PENTOXIFYLLINE ER 400 MG TAB | Generic | $0.22 each |