Trental: Restore Microcirculation for Improved Blood Flow
| Product dosage: 400mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $0.82 | $49.20 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $0.71 | $73.80 $64.26 (13%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.66 | $98.40 $79.32 (19%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.60 | $147.59 $107.43 (27%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.57 | $221.39 $153.62 (31%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.55
Best per pill | $295.19 $196.79 (33%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms
| |||
Trental (pentoxifylline) is a hemorheologic agent specifically designed to enhance peripheral blood flow by improving the flexibility of red blood cells and reducing blood viscosity. It is indicated for the symptomatic management of patients with intermittent claudication on the basis of chronic occlusive arterial disease of the limbs. By targeting microcirculatory impairments, Trental facilitates better tissue oxygenation and perfusion, which can lead to increased pain-free walking distance and overall functional improvement. Its mechanism is distinct from vasodilators, focusing instead on the rheologic properties of blood to support circulatory health in affected vascular beds.
Features
- Active ingredient: Pentoxifylline 400 mg (in extended-release tablets)
- Pharmacologic class: Hemorheologic agent, xanthine derivative
- Formulation: Film-coated, extended-release tablet for twice-daily dosing
- Mechanism: Improces red blood cell deformability, reduces blood viscosity, and decreases platelet aggregation
- Prescription status: Rx-only medication
- Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality control standards
Benefits
- Increases pain-free walking distance in patients with intermittent claudication
- Improves microcirculatory flow and tissue oxygenation in ischemic regions
- Reduces blood viscosity, facilitating easier passage through narrowed vessels
- Enhances red blood cell flexibility for better capillary perfusion
- Supports overall functional capacity in peripheral arterial disease
- Provides symptomatic relief without acting as a direct vasodilator
Common use
Trental is primarily prescribed for the symptomatic treatment of intermittent claudication, a condition characterized by muscle pain or cramping in the legs or arms that is triggered by activity and relieved by rest. This discomfort results from inadequate blood flow, usually due to peripheral artery disease (PAD). While not intended to replace more definitive interventions such as surgical revascularization or exercise therapy, Trental serves as a pharmacologic option to improve microcirculatory parameters and alleviate symptoms. It is typically incorporated into a comprehensive management plan that includes risk factor modification (e.g., smoking cessation, lipid management, glycemic control) and supervised exercise programs. Clinical studies have demonstrated that patients treated with Trental experience statistically significant improvements in pain-free walking distance compared to placebo, though individual responses may vary.
Dosage and direction
The recommended adult dosage of Trental is one 400 mg tablet taken three times per day with meals. Administration with food helps minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided, as this may alter the extended-release properties. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment; those with creatinine clearance below 30 mL/min should receive a reduced dosage (e.g., 400 mg twice daily). Treatment response is not immediate; several weeks of therapy may be required before symptomatic benefits become apparent. Patients should be advised to continue taking Trental as prescribed even if they feel well, as the medication is intended for chronic management. Abrupt discontinuation is not associated with rebound effects, but symptoms may gradually return if therapy is stopped.
Precautions
Trental should be used with caution in patients with a history of bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents, as pentoxifylline may inhibit platelet aggregation. Regular monitoring of prothrombin time or other coagulation parameters is advisable in such cases. Patients with recent retinal hemorrhage should avoid use until cleared by an ophthalmologist. Due to its xanthine derivative structure, Trental should be administered cautiously in individuals with low blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or cardiac arrhythmias. Hepatic or renal impairment necessitates dosage adjustment and closer supervision. Patients undergoing surgery should inform their surgeon of Trental use, as it may slightly increase bleeding risk. Trental has not been studied extensively in pregnant women and should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known whether pentoxifylline is excreted in human milk; caution is advised if prescribing to nursing mothers.
Contraindications
Trental is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to pentoxifylline, other xanthine derivatives (such as caffeine, theophylline, or theobromine), or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in individuals with a history of recent cerebral or retinal hemorrhage. Patients with severe cardiac arrhythmias, acute myocardial infarction, or severe coronary artery disease that is unstable should avoid Trental unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. The medication is also contraindicated in those with severe hepatic impairment or end-stage renal disease not on dialysis, due to the risk of metabolite accumulation.
Possible side effect
The most commonly reported adverse reactions associated with Trental involve the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems. These include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, bloating, and dizziness. Headache, tremor, anxiety, and blurred vision have also been reported. Less frequently, cardiovascular effects such as chest pain, arrhythmia, hypotension, or flushing may occur. Allergic reactions, though rare, can include skin rash, pruritus, or angioedema. Due to its effects on platelet function, Trental may rarely cause bleeding manifestations such as epistaxis or easy bruising. Most side effects are dose-dependent and may diminish with continued therapy or dose reduction. Patients should report any persistent or severe adverse effects to their healthcare provider.
Drug interaction
Trental may interact with several classes of medications. Concurrent use with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) or antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel) may potentiate the risk of bleeding; close monitoring of coagulation parameters is essential. Antihypertensive agents may have their effects enhanced, possibly leading to pronounced hypotension. Trental may also interact with theophylline, increasing the risk of theophylline toxicity; simultaneous use should be avoided or closely monitored. CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine) may increase pentoxifylline levels, while inducers (e.g., smoking, rifampin) may decrease its efficacy. Patients should provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to their prescriber.
Missed dose
If a dose of Trental is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose to make up for a missed one is not recommended, as it may increase the risk of adverse effects. Patients should be advised to maintain a consistent dosing routine, ideally taking Trental with meals to improve gastrointestinal tolerance and aid adherence.
Overdose
Symptoms of Trental overdose are primarily extensions of its known adverse effects and may include severe hypotension, tachycardia, convulsions, somnolence, loss of consciousness, fever, and agitation. Management is supportive and symptomatic; there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion was recent. Activated charcoal can be administered to reduce absorption. Hemodialysis is not effective for pentoxifylline removal due to high protein binding and extensive tissue distribution. Cardiovascular and respiratory support should be provided as needed. In cases of severe hypotension, volume expansion and vasopressors may be required. Patients suspected of overdose should seek immediate medical attention.
Storage
Trental tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature, between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F), in a tightly closed container. Protect from light, moisture, and excessive heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Unused medication should be disposed of properly via a drug take-back program or according to local regulations, not flushed down the toilet or thrown in household trash.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Trental is a prescription medication and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual patient responses may vary, and the benefits and risks must be carefully evaluated by a prescriber familiar with the patient’s full medical history. Never initiate, adjust, or discontinue medication without consulting your physician. The content here is not exhaustive; always refer to the official prescribing information for complete details.
Reviews
Clinical studies and patient reports generally reflect that Trental can provide meaningful symptomatic improvement for a subset of individuals with intermittent claudication. Many patients report increased walking distance and reduced leg pain after several weeks of consistent use. However, responses are variable, and some users experience only modest benefits. Gastrointestinal side effects are the most frequently cited reason for discontinuation. Physicians often note that Trental works best as part of a multifaceted approach that includes lifestyle modifications. Overall, it remains a valuable option in the pharmacologic arsenal for peripheral arterial disease, particularly for patients who are not candidates for more invasive interventions.