Pletal Dosage – Simple Guide

If you’ve been prescribed Pletal, you’re probably wondering how much to take and when. Pletal is the brand name for cilostazol, a tablet used to improve blood flow in the legs of people with peripheral artery disease. The good news is the dosing schedule is pretty straightforward, but a few details can make a big difference in how well it works and how few side effects you feel.

How Much to Take

The standard dose for most adults is 100 mg taken twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening – with food. Taking it with meals helps your stomach absorb the drug and reduces the chance of upset stomach. The total daily dose should never exceed 200 mg unless a doctor tells you otherwise.

If you have liver problems, kidney issues, or are over 80 years old, your doctor might start you on a lower dose, like 50 mg twice daily, and adjust based on how you respond. Never change the dose on your own; a small increase can raise the risk of headache, dizziness, or bleeding.

Keep a regular schedule. Skipping a dose and then taking two pills at once can cause a sudden spike in drug levels, which isn’t safe. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for the next one – don’t double up.

Tips for Safe Use

Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Crushing or chewing them can alter how the medicine works. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while you’re on Pletal because it can increase the drug’s concentration and raise side‑effect risk.

Stay hydrated and watch your blood pressure. Cilostazol can sometimes cause low blood pressure, especially if you’re also on other blood‑pressure meds. If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down right away.

Common side effects include headache, nausea, and palpitations. Most are mild and go away after a few days, but if you notice chest pain, sudden vision loss, or signs of bleeding (like dark stools or unusual bruising), call your doctor immediately.

Before you start Pletal, let your doctor know about any other medicines you take – especially anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, or other heart medications. Even over‑the‑counter supplements like fish oil can interact.

Lastly, keep track of how you feel. Write down any new symptoms, when you take the pill, and any meals that seem to affect you. This log helps your doctor fine‑tune the dosage and catch problems early.

With the right dose, taken consistently and with these safety tips, Pletal can help you walk farther and feel better without unnecessary side effects. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist or doctor – they’re there to make sure the medication works for you.