Cilostazol: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Cilostazol is a phosphodiesterase III inhibitor used mainly to reduce the symptoms of intermittent claudication, a condition that can cause leg discomfort during walking. It is available as tablets and requires a prescription in the United Kingdom. Generic cilostazol has been available since 2004-11-23, giving patients a non-branded treatment option.

Cilostazol is a phosphodiesterase III inhibitor. This class of medicine increases levels of chemical messengers inside certain cells, including blood vessel muscle cells and platelets. The effect can relax blood vessels and reduce platelet aggregation, which may improve blood flow through the limbs during activity.

These actions are thought to support the increased walking distance seen when cilostazol is used for intermittent claudication. The same effects can also influence heart rate, blood pressure and heart rhythm, so the medicine is not suitable for people with heart failure of any severity.

Cilostazol is indicated for reducing the symptoms of intermittent claudication. This condition can cause discomfort in the legs during walking, and cilostazol may help increase the distance a person can walk before symptoms occur.

The medicine is intended for symptom reduction rather than describing the underlying cause of the circulation problem. A pharmacist or doctor can explain whether the prescribed treatment is suitable for an individual’s symptoms and medical history.

The label lists 50 mg and 100 mg tablets. The usual starting dose is 100 mg twice daily, taken at least half an hour before or two hours after breakfast and dinner. The label lists a reduced dose of 50 mg twice daily when cilostazol is used with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, including ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin or diltiazem, or with CYP2C19 inhibitors including ticlopidine, fluconazole or omeprazole.

The label states that some patients may respond as early as 2 to 4 weeks, while treatment for up to 12 weeks may be needed before benefit is experienced. The label states that cilostazol should be discontinued if symptoms are unimproved after 3 months.

Store cilostazol tablets at 25°C, with permitted excursions from 15°C to 30°C. Keep the tablets in their packaging, protected from moisture and away from children. Follow the label and pharmacy instructions to maintain quality.

A missed dose means the scheduled dose was not taken at the intended time. General pharmacy guidance is to take the missed dose when remembered unless the next scheduled dose is near, then omit the missed dose and return to the usual schedule.

Double dosing is not advised. A pharmacist can provide individual advice, particularly if several doses have been missed or symptoms have changed.

The label reports teratogenic effects in rats and states that there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Cilostazol has been reported to transfer into rat milk.

Because of potential serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, the label states that nursing or cilostazol should be discontinued. Pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.