Pentoxifylline (Oxpentifylline)
Brand names: Trental
Pentoxifylline (oxpentifylline) is a methylxanthine derivative that has been used to relieve symptoms of peripheral arterial disease with intermittent claudication.
ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.
Clinical monograph
How it works
It improves red blood cell deformability and reduces blood viscosity and platelet aggregation, which may enhance microcirculatory blood flow.
Prescribing in practice
- It is contraindicated after recent haemorrhage, including cerebral or retinal bleeding, because of its effects on blood flow and platelets.
- Use with caution in hypotension, severe cardiac arrhythmia and in renal or hepatic impairment.
- Modified-release tablets should be swallowed whole.
Monitoring
Monitor blood pressure and review for symptomatic benefit, particularly in patients with cardiovascular or renal disease.
Counselling the patient
- Swallow modified-release tablets whole with water and do not crush them.
- Report dizziness, palpitations or any signs of bleeding.
- Continue exercise and address risk factors such as smoking.
Evidence & guidelines
Evidence of benefit in intermittent claudication is modest, and NICE recommends supervised exercise and risk-factor management as first-line care.
Reference: NICE NG19 PAD Guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.