Pentoxifylline Shared Care Protocol (Formularies)

Warning

Pentoxifylline 400mg m/r tablets 

Indication

Treatment of venous leg ulcers that have failed to heal after 3 months.

Dosage

400mg three times daily for up to 6 months.
In patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance below 30mL/min) a dose reduction by approximately 30% to 50% may be necessary, guided by individual tolerance.

Initiation and maintenance of treatment - delineation of responsibilities

 Initiation of pentoxifylline by consultant or vascular specialist nurse

  • to assess the patient and establish that pentoxifylline is an appropriate treatment
  • to ensure that there are no contra-indications or significant drug interactions
  • to ensure that the patient is fully informed about their treatment
  • to notify the GP of the change of therapy
  • to inform the GP via a clinic letter if any follow up is required.

Continuation of treatment - GP’s responsibilities

  • continuation of prescription for up to 6 months
  • to review patient according to follow-up plan in clinic letter
  • reporting any adverse effects of treatment.

Drug interactions

Medications with potential interactions with pentoxifylline include:

  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): possible increased risk of bleeding when pentoxifylline given with NSAIDs
  • theophylline – pentoxifylline increases plasma concentrations of theophylline.

Advice to patients

Take tablets with or immediately after meals, and swallow whole with plenty of water.

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 31/03/2019

Next review date: 31/03/2021

Version: 1

Approved By: Formulary Subgroup of ADTC

Reviewer name(s): Consultant Vascular Surgeon.