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Published on: June 29, 2013
Pharmacology of pentoxifylline, a hemorheologic agent for the treatment of intermittent claudication
Insights
This review highlights Carl J. Wiggers' contributions to hemodynamics and discusses pentoxifylline, a drug improving blood flow properties for treating peripheral vascular diseases and circulatory disorders like intermittent claudication.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Review of Carl J. Wiggers' foundational work in systemic and cardiac hemodynamics.
- Exploration of blood flow properties in impaired circulation.
Discussion:
- Focus on pentoxifylline, a xanthine derivative, for treating peripheral vascular diseases.
- Detailed examination of pentoxifylline's hemorheological activity and therapeutic profile.
Key Insights:
- Pentoxifylline demonstrates significant hemorheological properties.
- Experimental and clinical data support pentoxifylline's efficacy.
Outlook:
- Pentoxifylline shows promise for treating circulatory ischemic disorders.
- Specific application in managing intermittent claudication.
Abstract:
Physiological and pathophysiological aspects of systemic and cardiac haemodynamics are reviewed with appraisal of Carl J. Wiggers merits and contributions to the research and developments in this field and his early recognition of the significance of the flow properties of blood in impaired circulation. Pharmacological agents involved in treatment of peripheral vascular diseases are discussed with special regard to the haemorheologically active xanthine derivative pentoxifylline. The profile of pentoxifylline as it emerges from experimental pharmacological and clinical studies is presented paying special attention to the haemorheological properties of the drug. Pharmacokinetic features of pentoxifylline are surveyed touching absorption, blood levels, metabolism and excretion aspects. Basing on the available data pentoxifylline is regarded as a promising drug in the treatment of circulatory ischemic disorders, especially in intermittent claudication.
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