What is cilostazol?

Cilostazol is a vasodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in your blood vessels to help them dilate (widen). Cilostazol dilates arteries that supply blood to your 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 purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Do not take cilostazol if you have heart failure of any kind.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take cilostazol if you have heart failure of any kind. Cilostazol can make this condition worse.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• bleeding problems;

• liver or kidney disease;

• a heart attack or stroke; or

• if you smoke.

It is not known whether cilostazol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while using cilostazol.

How should I take cilostazol?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Cilostazol is usually taken twice a day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after breakfast or dinner.

Take the medicine at the same time each day.

It may take up to 12 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 months of treatment.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Cilostazol side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• chest pain, pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores; or

• easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under your skin.

Common side effects may include:

• diarrhea, abnormal bowel movements;

• headache; or

• fast or pounding heartbeats.