Cilostazol is a medication prescribed to manage intermittent claudication, a condition of leg pain or cramping during exercise, often a symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD). It works by improving blood flow and preventing blood clots. Cilostazol widens blood vessels and inhibits platelet aggregation, allowing individuals with PAD to walk longer distances with less discomfort.
Common Side Effects
Many individuals taking Cilostazol may experience common side effects as their body adjusts. These reactions are generally mild to moderate. Headache is common, affecting approximately 34% of patients. Diarrhea is reported by about 19% of users, along with abnormal stools in about 15% of cases.
Other common side effects include dizziness and palpitations, affecting around 10% of patients. Some individuals might also experience a slight increase in heart rate, typically 5 to 7 beats per minute. Additional reactions can include a sore throat, general infections, upset stomach, or gas.
How Long Side Effects Typically Last
Many common side effects associated with Cilostazol are transient, often diminishing as the body adapts to the medication. For most individuals, these mild to moderate effects, such as headache or dizziness, may subside within a few days to a few weeks of consistent use. The body’s adjustment period allows it to acclimate to the changes in blood flow and platelet activity.
The duration of these side effects can vary depending on individual body chemistry and how each person metabolizes the drug. While some patients may notice improvement within two to four weeks, it can take up to 12 weeks for the full beneficial effects of the medication to be realized and for side effects to resolve. If symptoms persist beyond this typical adjustment period of a few weeks, it is less common for them to resolve on their own.
Dosage can also influence how long side effects last. A healthcare provider might consider adjusting the dosage if side effects are bothersome. Consistent adherence to the prescribed regimen is important, as the medication needs time to establish its therapeutic effects and for the body to fully adjust.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many side effects of Cilostazol are temporary, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Contact a healthcare provider if side effects are severe, worsen over time, or do not go away after the typical adjustment period. This includes common side effects that become intolerable or significantly impact daily life.
More serious reactions, though less common, require prompt evaluation. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or a sudden, severe headache should be reported immediately. Any signs of unusual bleeding or bruising, black or tarry stools, or blood in the urine or vomit could indicate a serious bleeding issue and necessitate urgent medical consultation.
Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing, require emergency medical help. Swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles, or a fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat also warrant immediate contact with a healthcare professional. Never discontinue the medication without first consulting your doctor.