Pletoz 50 Mg Tablet

Pletoz 50 mg Tablet, containing Cilostazol, is a medication primarily used to manage symptoms of intermittent claudication, a condition characterized by leg pain, cramping, numbness, or weakness during walking due to insufficient blood flow.

What is PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET used for?

PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET is used to treat intermittent claudication, a condition where pain, tingling, and numbness occur in the legs, particularly during physical activity like walking, due to reduced blood flow. It helps to alleviate this discomfort and increase the distance one can walk without pain. It may also be used to prevent stroke.

How does it work?

PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET contains Cilostazol, which works as a vasodilator and an antiplatelet agent. It widens blood vessels and reduces the stickiness of blood platelets, preventing the formation of blood clots. This action improves blood circulation to the limbs, thereby reducing pain and increasing walking distance. Cilostazol achieves this by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 3 (PDE3), which leads to an increase in cyclic AMP (cAMP) in platelets and blood vessels.

What is the usual dosage?

The recommended dosage of Cilostazol (the active ingredient in Pletoz) is typically 100 mg twice daily, taken at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after breakfast and dinner. However, your doctor may prescribe a 50 mg twice daily dose, especially if you are taking other medications that may interact with Cilostazol. It's crucial to follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding dosage and duration. Improvement in symptoms may be noticed within 2 to 4 weeks, but it can take up to 12 weeks for the full beneficial effect.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects of PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET can include headaches, palpitations (racing or skipping heartbeats), abnormal stools, diarrhea, dizziness, and swelling (edema) in the body, particularly the ankles. Other possible side effects include abdominal pain, increased heart rate, chest pain, nausea, and vomiting. More serious, though less common, side effects can include severe allergic reactions, heart problems (like irregular heartbeat or fast heartbeat), and blood disorders (such as low platelet or white blood cell levels). You should report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy as animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, as the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby. Always consult your doctor for advice if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can it be taken with other medications?

Cilostazol is metabolized by certain liver enzymes (CYP3A4 and CYP2C19), so it can interact with other medications that affect these enzymes. Medications that may interact include:

• Antifungal medications like ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole.
• Antibiotics such as erythromycin and clarithromycin.
• Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole.
• Blood thinners/antiplatelet agents such as warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrel, as combining them with Cilostazol can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Certain heart medications like diltiazem (a calcium channel blocker).
• Some antidepressants like nefazodone, fluoxetine, or fluvoxamine.

Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it may increase the risk of side effects.

What precautions should be taken?

• Heart Conditions: PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET is contraindicated in patients with heart failure of any severity. It should also be avoided if you have a history of chest pain, heart attack, or heart surgery.
• Bleeding Risk: This medication can increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid it if you have bleeding disorders (like hemophilia), active pathologic bleeding (e.g., stomach ulcers, intracranial bleeding), or an elevated risk of bleeding due to other factors.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: Use with caution and inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, as the dose may need adjustment.
• Surgery: Discontinue use prior to any scheduled surgery.
• Driving: PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET may cause dizziness or blurry vision, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Smoking: Smoking can decrease the effectiveness of Cilostazol.
• Do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should it be stored?

Store PLETOZ 50 MG TABLET at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It can tolerate brief exposures to temperatures between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep it in a cool, dry place, tightly closed, and protected from light. Ensure it is out of the sight and reach of children.