WARNING

Pletal is a brand name for the medication cilostazol, which is primarily used to treat intermittent claudication, a condition where blood flow to the legs is reduced, leading to pain during physical activity. While Pletal can be effective for some individuals, like any medication, it carries certain risks and potential side effects. It’s important to note that the information provided here is not exhaustive, and individuals should consult their healthcare professionals for personalized advice. Here are some potential risks associated with taking Pletal:

• Bleeding Risk: Pletal may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if taken with other medications that also affect blood clotting. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants should use Pletal with caution.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Some individuals may experience changes in heart rate, palpitations, or other cardiovascular effects. Those with pre-existing heart conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using Pletal.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Pletal may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform healthcare providers about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, being taken concurrently.
• Liver Impairment: Individuals with severe liver impairment may require dosage adjustments or may not be suitable candidates for Pletal. Regular monitoring is essential in such cases.
• Allergic Reactions: Like any medication, Pletal can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if any allergic reactions occur.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Pletal may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea. If these symptoms persist or become severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.
• Headache and Dizziness: Some individuals may experience headaches or dizziness while taking Pletal. If these symptoms are persistent or severe, medical advice should be sought.
• Renal Impairment: Individuals with severe kidney problems may need dosage adjustments or may not be suitable candidates for Pletal. Regular monitoring is essential in such cases.

It’s crucial for individuals considering or currently using Pletal to discuss their medical history and any concerns with their healthcare provider. They should follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations, report any unusual symptoms promptly, and attend regular check-ups to monitor for potential side effects or complications.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Pletal is a brand name for the generic drug cilostazol. It is a medication primarily prescribed to improve the symptoms of intermittent claudication, a condition characterized by pain, cramping, or weakness in the legs during physical activity due to reduced blood flow. Intermittent claudication is often associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a condition in which there is a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the legs.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some key points regarding the prescription and usage of Plerixafor Injection:

• Dosage: The typical starting dosage for Pletal is 100 mg twice daily, taken at least half an hour before or two hours after meals. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.
• Consistency: Pletal should be taken consistently and at the same times each day, as directed by a healthcare provider.
• Food Interaction: It’s important to take Pletal on an empty stomach, as taking it with food can affect its absorption. Specifically, it is recommended to take it at least 30 minutes before or two hours after meals.
• Monitoring: Healthcare providers may monitor patients regularly to assess the effectiveness of the medication and check for any side effects or complications.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Double doses should not be taken to make up for a missed dose.
• Duration of Treatment: The duration of Pletal treatment is determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual’s response to the medication and the overall management plan for intermittent claudication.
• Allergies: Individuals with known allergies to cilostazol or other components of Pletal should not take the medication.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Individuals with liver or kidney problems may require dosage adjustments, and their liver and kidney function may need to be monitored regularly.
• Other Medications: It’s important to inform healthcare providers about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, being taken, as Pletal may interact with other medications.

Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly, and attend regular check-ups to monitor their response to Pletal and ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.

Other uses for this medicine

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Some studies have explored the use of cilostazol in Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to certain parts of the body, typically the fingers and toes, in response to cold or stress.
• Vascular Dementia: There is ongoing research into the potential use of cilostazol in the prevention or treatment of vascular dementia, a type of dementia caused by impaired blood flow to the brain.
• Prevention of Stroke Recurrence: Cilostazol has been studied in some cases for its potential role in preventing recurrent strokes, especially in individuals who have experienced a lacunar stroke.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Pletal, here are some general considerations:

• Allergies: Individuals with known allergies to cilostazol or other components of Pletal should not take the medication.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Patients with severe liver or kidney problems may require dosage adjustments, and their liver and kidney function should be monitored regularly.
• Bleeding Risk: Pletal may increase the risk of bleeding. It should be used with caution in individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure or those prone to arrhythmias, should use Pletal with caution. Close monitoring may be necessary.
• Other Medications: Inform healthcare providers about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Pletal may interact with other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Pletal during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established, and it should be used only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using Pletal.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Pletal may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea. If these symptoms persist or become severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.
• Headache and Dizziness: Some individuals may experience headaches or dizziness while taking Pletal. If these symptoms are persistent or severe, medical advice should be sought.

Patients should discuss their medical history, current health conditions, and any concerns with their healthcare provider before starting Pletal. They should adhere to the prescribed dosage and schedule, report any unusual symptoms promptly, and attend regular check-ups to monitor for potential side effects or complications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Pletal. However, it is recommended to take Pletal on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or two hours after meals. Taking it with food may affect its absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Pletal:

• Take the Missed Dose as Soon as Possible: If you remember within a relatively short time frame, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• Skip the Missed Dose if It’s Almost Time for the Next Dose: If it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Pletal (cilostazol) may cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary. If you are prescribed Pletal, your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks based on your individual health profile. Common and less severe side effects may include:

• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Pletal. They are usually mild and may decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea as a side effect of Pletal. If this side effect persists or becomes severe, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness: Pletal may cause dizziness. It’s advisable to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you. If dizziness persists or is severe, consult your healthcare provider.
• Increased Heart Rate (Tachycardia): Some people may experience an increase in heart rate while taking Pletal. This is usually mild, but if you notice a rapid or irregular heartbeat, inform your healthcare provider.
• Flushing: Pletal may cause flushing, which is characterized by redness or warmth of the skin. This side effect is generally mild and temporary.
• Edema (Swelling): Swelling of the ankles, legs, or feet may occur in some individuals. If you notice significant swelling, inform your healthcare provider.
• Palpitations: Some individuals may experience palpitations or a feeling of rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats. If this occurs frequently or is bothersome, consult your healthcare provider.
• Abnormal Liver Function Tests: In rare cases, Pletal may affect liver function. Regular monitoring of liver function may be recommended.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

While the above side effects are possible, many people tolerate Pletal well without significant issues. Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to the medication and adjust the dosage or recommend alternative treatments if needed. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure the safe and effective use of Pletal.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Pletal:

• Storage:
  • Store Pletal (cilostazol) at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
  • Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
  • Avoid storing Pletal in the bathroom, where it may be exposed to humidity.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused Pletal in accordance with local regulations or as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Properly discard Pletal in a sealed container, away from children and pets, following guidelines provided by your local pharmacy or healthcare provider.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include:

• Severe dizziness
• Fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

It’s crucial to contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if you believe you or someone else has ingested too much Pletal.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may schedule regular check-ups to monitor your response to Pletal, assess any side effects, and make dosage adjustments if necessary.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. These visits are essential for monitoring your condition, adjusting treatment plans, and addressing any concerns.
• Informing Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Pletal. This includes dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, that you are taking. Pletal may interact with certain medications, and your healthcare provider can help manage these interactions.
• Lifestyle Changes: Your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation, regular exercise, and a heart-healthy diet, to complement the effects of Pletal.
• Patient Education: Understand the purpose of taking Pletal, and be aware of potential side effects. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the safe and effective use of Pletal. If you have specific questions or encounter any issues, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.