Drug description:

Pentoxifylline is a xanthine derivative belongs to vasodilator agent. It is indicated for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease, including intermittent claudication on the basis of chronic occlusive arterial disease of the limbs and for the treatment of acute arterial circulatory disorders of the eye.
It is formulated as extended release tablets for oral route of administration and as solution for injection infusion for intravenous route of administration.

Mechanism of action:

Pentoxifylline inhibits phosphodiesterase, resulting in increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in erythrocytes, endothelium, and the surrounding tissues. This leads to vasodilation, improves erythrocyte flexibility, and enhances blood flow. In addition, the increased level of cAMP in platelets inhibits platelet aggregation, which may contribute to a reduction in blood viscosity.