What is cilostazol?
Cilostazol widens arteries that supply blood to the legs. Cilostazol also improves circulation by keeping platelets in the blood from sticking together and clotting.
Cilostazol is used to treat the symptoms of intermittent claudication. This condition causes reduced blood flow to the legs, leading to pain while walking. Cilostazol improves your ability to walk longer distances without pain.
Cilostazol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about cilostazol?
Do not take cilostazol if you have congestive heart failure. Cilostazol can make this condition worse.
It may take up to 12 weeks of using cilostazol before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with cilostazol. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
Take cilostazol on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cilostazol?
Do not take cilostazol if you have congestive heart failure. Cilostazol can make this condition worse.
Before using cilostazol, tell your doctor if you have:
heart disease; or
liver disease.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Cilostazol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.