Examples
|
| pentoxifylline | Pentoxil, Trental |
How It Works
Pentoxifylline can help improve venous skin ulcer healing. Pentoxifylline reduces the
viscosity or "stickiness" of your blood, improving blood circulation.
Pentoxifylline also reduces inflammation in the body, which may help ulcers
heal also.
Why It Is Used
Large venous skin ulcers are often
resistant to healing. Pentoxifylline may speed healing in these ulcers when
used with
compression stockings.
How Well It Works
Pentoxifylline may help
speed healing of venous skin ulcers when it is used along with compression
treatment.1
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Hives.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor if you have:
Side effects of this medicine include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Nausea.
- Stomach aches.
See Drug
Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in
all systems.)
What To Think About
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.
There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Taking Medicines as Prescribed.
Advice for women
If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
References
Citations
- Nelson EA, Jones J (2008). Venous leg ulcers, search
date September 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
|---|
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|---|
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Margaret Doucette, DO - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Wound Care, Hyperbaric Medicine |
|---|
| Last Revised | May 14, 2012 |
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