Indications 

Trental ER is primarily indicated for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and related conditions. It can be indicated to treat a condition called intermittent claudication, which is characterized by leg pain and cramping that occurs after walking or exercise due to reduced blood flow to the legs.  

The active ingredient in Trental ER is pentoxifylline, which belongs to a class of drugs known as hemorrheologic agents. It works by improving blood flow through narrowed arteries, thus reducing pain and other symptoms associated with poor blood circulation. Its use for other conditions not mentioned may be off-label and should be discussed with your healthcare provider. 

Use and Dosage 

Trental ER tablets are typically taken orally, usually once or twice daily with food. The tablet is generally taken with meals to help reduce stomach upset. Taking it with food can also help with the absorption of the medication. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Trental ER tablets are designed to release the medication slowly over time. Changing the tablets may interfere with their extended-release mechanism and affect their effectiveness. 

The specific dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the individual’s condition and the instructions provided by a healthcare professional. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking the tablet without consulting your doctor. Improvement in symptoms can occur in 2-4 weeks, but it may take up to 8 weeks to get the full benefit. 

If you miss a dose of Trental ER, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Belching 
• Bloating 
• Blurred vision 
• Chest pain 
• Diarrhea 
• Diminished field of vision 
• Disruption in the production of red blood cells 
• Dizziness 
• Flushing 
• Gas 
• Headache 
• Hepatitis 
• Increased liver enzymes 
• Inflammation of the brain 
• Inflammation of the gallbladder 
• Leukemia 
• Loss of appetite 
• Low blood platelet count 
• Low red blood cell count 
• Low white blood cell count 
• Nausea 
• Pink eye 
• Rapid swelling 
• Seizure 
• Severe allergic reaction 
• Upset stomach 
• Vomiting 

Serious Side Effects 

• Blurry vision 
• Burping, bloating, and gas 
• Chest pain 
• Constipation 
• Dry mouth 
• Low blood pressure 
• Lowered appetite 
• Shakiness (tremor) 
• Shortness of breath 
• Swelling 

Cautions 

• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to pentoxifylline or any other ingredients in Trental ER, you should avoid taking it. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.  
• Bleeding disorders: Trental ER may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking medications that thin the blood (such as anticoagulants). 
• Liver or kidney disease: If you have liver or kidney disease, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of Trental ER.  
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Trental ER during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established. 
• Drug interactions: Trental ER may interact with other medications, including blood-thinning medications, antiplatelet drugs, and certain anticoagulants.  
• Cardiovascular conditions: Trental ER may affect blood pressure and heart rate. If you have a history of cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), unstable angina, or recent heart attack, your healthcare provider may need to monitor you closely while taking Trental ER. 
• Diabetes: Trental ER may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your diabetes medications or monitor your blood sugar levels more closely while you are taking Trental ER. 
• Surgery: If you are scheduled to undergo surgery, inform your healthcare provider about your use of Trental ER. It may be necessary to temporarily discontinue the medication prior to the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding complications. 
• Elderly patients: Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to the side effects of Trental ER, such as dizziness or hypotension (low blood pressure). Close monitoring and appropriate dosage adjustments may be necessary for this population. 
• Smoking: Smoking may reduce the effectiveness of Trental ER. If you are a smoker, inform your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan accordingly. 
• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol while taking Trental ER may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or stomach irritation. Limit or avoid alcohol intake during treatment.