Pentoxifylline--a new drug for the treatment of intermittent claudication

Pentoxifylline, a xanthine analogue was evaluated for efficacy, safety and tolerance in the treatment of intermittent claudication in a pilot study. Evaluation was performed in 35 cases. 20 patients were given Pentoxifylline in doses of 1200 mg daily, and 15 patients were given placebo for a period of 8 weeks respectively. Pentoxifylline given in doses of 1200 mg was significantly more effective than the placebo in increasing both the initial and absolute claudication distance (ICD & ACD) in patients with chronic occlusive arterial disease. The subjective parameters, such as paraesthesias, muscular cramps and sensation of heaviness in the legs paralleled the course of walking parameters. These results support the hypothesis that Pentoxifylline in doses of 400 mg TDS reduces blood viscosity by improving red cell flexibility, and thereby enhances blood flow in patients with COAD (Fontaine Stage II or Stage III). Pentoxifylline is thus regarded as a promising drug for circulatory ischaemic disorders, especially in intermittent claudication. It was well tolerated with minimal untoward effects.