General Info:

Pentoxifylline (Trental) changes the shape of red blood cells in your blood. This makes it easier for these blood cells to fit into small arteries (blood vessels). Pentoxifylline (Trental) is used to improve blood flow. Improved blood flow helps to reduce leg cramps and other symptoms of vascular disease (disease related to veins and arteries).

Do not stop taking this medication suddenly. It may take up to 8 weeks for you to see the beneficial effects of Pentoxifylline (Trental), although you may begin to feel better as soon as 2 weeks after starting therapy.

Tobacco may worsen your condition or decrease the beneficial effects of Pentoxifylline (Trental) by narrowing your blood vessels.

Take Pentoxifylline (Trental) with meals to prevent upset stomach.