What is Pentoxifylline ER? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Pentoxifylline ER overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Pentoxil, TRENtal

Generic Names:

  • Pentoxifylline Er

Uses:

  • Treats problems from poor blood circulation by improving the flow of blood through blood vessels.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Hemorheologic

Forms:

  • Long Acting Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Pentoxifylline ER used for?

What form(s) does Pentoxifylline ER come in?

  • Long Acting Tablet

What are common Pentoxifylline ER dosages?

  • Tablet 400mg

Pentoxifylline ER images - What does Pentoxifylline ER look like?

  • Pentoxifylline ER
    400mg tablet

  • Pentoxifylline ER
    400mg tablet extended release

How to take Pentoxifylline ER

  • Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.

  • Swallow tablets whole.

  • Take your medicine with meals to avoid stomach upset.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.

  • Swallow tablets whole.

  • Take your medicine with meals to avoid stomach upset.

What to do if you miss a dose of Pentoxifylline ER

  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

  • Take the missed dose as soon as possible.

  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose

Pentoxifylline ER contraindications - Who shouldn't take Pentoxifylline ER?

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pentoxifylline or to related drugs, such as theophylline or caffeine. You should not use this medicine if you have had recent retina (eye) surgery.

Pentoxifylline ER warnings

  • You may need to take this medicine for several weeks before it starts to help.

  • Avoid smoking or using other tobacco products, because nicotine narrows your blood vessels and can make your pain worse.

  • Check with your doctor before taking pentoxifylline if you have liver or kidney disease.

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

Pentoxifylline ER interactions & what to avoid when taking Pentoxifylline ER

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Coumadin®.

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

  • You may need to take this medicine for several weeks before it starts to help.

  • Avoid smoking or using other tobacco products, because nicotine narrows your blood vessels and can make your pain worse.

Pentoxifylline ER side effects - How does Pentoxifylline ER make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Chest pain

  • Irregular heartbeat.

  • Headache

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Dizziness

  • Headache

  • Nausea, indigestion, vomiting

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