Oxifyl CR 400

Indications

This medication is recommended for the following conditions:

• Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) due to arteriosclerosis or diabetes, including symptoms like intermittent claudication and rest pain.
• Trophic lesions such as leg ulcers and gangrene.
• Cerebral vascular diseases.
• Circulatory disturbances in the eyes associated with degenerative vascular disorders.

Pharmacological Action

The medication contains Pentoxifylline and its metabolites, which enhance blood flow by reducing viscosity. In patients with chronic peripheral arterial disease, this enhances tissue oxygenation and microcirculation. The exact mechanism and clinical benefits are still being studied. Pentoxifylline has shown dose-dependent effects on blood viscosity and erythrocyte flexibility. It also modifies leukocyte properties, increasing deformability and inhibiting adhesion and activation of neutrophils. Therapeutic doses have been observed to significantly increase tissue oxygen levels in patients with peripheral arterial disease.

Dosage & Administration

The dosage depends on the type and severity of circulatory disorders and individual patient response. Typically, it is recommended to take 400 mg of Pentoxifylline 2 to 3 times daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole during or shortly after a meal with enough liquid.

Interactions

The medication should be used with caution alongside other medications. Potential interactions include:

• Enhanced blood-sugar-lowering effects when used with insulin or oral antidiabetics.
• Increased anti-coagulant activity when used concomitantly with Oxifyl CR and anti-vitamin K.
• Possible potentiation of blood-pressure-lowering effects when used with antihypertensive agents.
• Increased theophylline levels in some patients when used with ciprofloxacin.
• Elevated plasma concentration when used with cimetidine.

Contraindications

The medication should not be used:

• In patients allergic to Pentoxifylline, methylxanthines, or any components of the medication.
• In cases of massive or extensive retinal bleeding due to the risk of increased bleeding.

Side Effects

Adverse reactions reported include changes in transaminase levels, decreased blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, blood disorders, nervous system effects, gastrointestinal disturbances, skin reactions, vascular issues, immune system reactions, hepatobiliary disorders, and psychiatric symptoms.

Pregnancy & Lactation

There’s limited data on the use of Pentoxifylline in pregnancy. Therefore, caution is advised, and the risks and benefits should be considered before use during breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings

The medication should be used with caution in various conditions, including severe cardiac arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, hypotension, impaired renal or liver function, increased bleeding risk, and when used with certain medications.

Use in Special Populations

Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Treatment should be initiated cautiously in hypotensive patients or those at risk of reduced blood pressure.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms of acute overdose may include nausea, dizziness, tachycardia, hypotension, fever, agitation, loss of consciousness, convulsions, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Specific antidotes are not known, and immediate medical attention is recommended.

Therapeutic Class

The medication belongs to the therapeutic class of peripheral vasodilator drugs used for intermittent claudication.

Storage Conditions

Store the medication in a cool, dry place away from light, and ensure it is used before the expiration date. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and dispense only with a registered physician’s prescription.