Type of medicine Vasodilator
Used for Circulation problems and leg ulcers
Also called Trental
Available as Modified release tablets

Trental is used to treat circulatory problems, such as peripheral vascular disease and sometimes leg ulcers. Such problems can cause numbness, pain and discomfort in the hands, feet and other areas, due to bad circulation. Trental relieves these symptoms by increasing the blood flow to the affected areas by widening the blood vessels.

Why is this drug prescribed?

This drug contains the active ingredient pentoxifylline. Pentoxifylline works by increasing the supply of oxygen to the tissues. It does this by causing the blood vessels to widen, resulting in increased blood supply. It also has effects on the blood cells, which results in a thinning of the blood, allowing it to pass more easily through the blood vessels. Both these effects are useful in peripheral vascular disease, where the blood vessels in the extremities are narrowed. This drug reduces the pain of peripheral vascular disease by increasing the blood flow and delivery of oxygen to the tissues.

Treatments

* Narrowing of blood vessels in the extremities

What side effects can this drug cause?

* Headache * Rash * Faster than normal heart beat * Disturbed sleep * Agitation * Disturbances of the gut such as diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain * Dizziness * Flushing * Chest pain