Cilostazol 50mg

Cilostazol 50mg — Uses and Benefits

Cilostazol is mainly prescribed for people who experience leg pain while walking due to poor blood circulation, a condition known as intermittent claudication.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Improving walking distance in patients with intermittent claudication
• Reducing symptoms of leg pain, cramping, and fatigue caused by reduced blood flow
• Managing peripheral artery disease as advised by a vascular specialist

HOW IT WORKS

• Inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-3, which increases a chemical that relaxes blood vessels
• Widens blood vessels, improving blood flow to the legs
• Prevents platelets from sticking together, reducing clot formation

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat general muscle pain
• It is not used to treat heart attack or stroke directly
• It is not a substitute for lifestyle changes like exercise, quitting smoking, or diabetes control
• It is not recommended for patients with heart failure of any severity

How to Use Cilostazol 50mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice daily
• Take on an empty stomach, at least half an hour before or two hours after a meal, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
• Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own
• Continue taking it regularly even if you do not notice immediate improvement, as benefits may take a few weeks

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Dispose of unused or expired medicine safely, do not flush it down the drain

Cilostazol 50mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Diarrhoea
• Abnormal stools or loose motions
• Dizziness
• Palpitations (feeling of fast heartbeat)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Muscle pain
• Rash
• Swelling in legs or feet

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of bleeding such as unusual bruising, blood in urine or stools, or prolonged bleeding from cuts
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe shortness of breath
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cilostazol 50mg — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have heart failure of any degree
• Have a history of irregular heart rhythms
• Are currently bleeding, such as a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the brain
• Are allergic to cilostazol or any other ingredient in the tablet

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of heart disease or abnormal heart rhythm
• Are taking blood thinners or other antiplatelet medicines
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have low blood pressure or are prone to dizziness

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• Other antiplatelet medicines
• Medicines for fungal infections such as ketoconazole
• Certain antibiotics like erythromycin
• Grapefruit juice may increase drug levels in blood

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine with food?

It is best taken on an empty stomach for better absorption, but follow your doctor's specific instructions.

How long does it take to work?

Improvement in walking distance may take a few weeks to a few months of regular use.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly without medical advice can cause symptoms to return; always consult your doctor before stopping.
• This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India. Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.