Cilostazol is a preparation of Cilostazol which is a quinolinone derivative. The mechanism of action is to specifically inhibit cellular phosphodiesterase III (PDE III) and suppress cAMP degradation with a resultant increase in cAMP in platelets and blood vessels, leading to inhibition of platelet aggregation and vasodilation.

Cilostazol is indicated for the reduction of symptoms of intermittent claudication, as indicated by an increased walking distance.

The recommended dosage of Cilostazol is 100 mg bid, taken at least half an hour before or two hours after breakfast and dinner. A dose of 50 mg bid should be considered during coadministration of Fluconazole, Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, Fluvoxamine, Fluoxetine, Nefazodone, Sertraline and Diltiazem.

Pediatric use: The safety and effectiveness of Cilostazol in pediatric patients have not been established.

Cilostazol is contraindicated in patients with congestive heart failure of any severity. Cilostazol is also contraindicated in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to any of its components.

The most common side effects are headache, diarrhoea, vomiting, leg cramps, rash etc. The less frequent side effects are anorexia and edema.

Cilostazol should be used with caution in patients with any degree of heart failure. There is no information with respect to the efficacy or safety of the concurrent use of Cilostazol and Clopidogrel.

Pregnancy & Lactation

There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Transfer of Cilostazol into milk has been reported in experimental animals. Because of the potential risk to nursing infants, a decision should be made to discontinue nursing or to discontinue Cilostazol.