Basic Pletal Information

Category	Details
International Nonproprietary Name (INN)	Cilostazol
Brand Names Available in Australia	Pletal
ATC Code	B01AC23
Forms & Dosages	100 mg tablets
Manufacturers in Australia	Aspen Pharma Pty Ltd
Registration Status in Australia	Prescription only
OTC / Rx Classification	Prescription only

Critical Warnings & Restrictions

Pletal (Cilostazol) comes with several critical warnings and restrictions that need to be understood to ensure safe usage.

High-Risk Groups (Elderly, Pregnancy, Chronic Illness)

It's essential for certain high-risk groups to approach Pletal with caution. Individuals with any degree of heart failure should avoid using this medication, as it may significantly increase the risk of mortality. Pregnant women are advised to seek guidance from their healthcare provider before starting treatment with Pletal, since the safety of this medication during pregnancy and while breastfeeding has not been established. Additionally, older patients may be more susceptible to side effects from Pletal, which calls for closer monitoring throughout the treatment process.

Interaction with Activities (Driving, Workplace Safety Under Australian Law)

When it comes to activities like driving or operating machinery, potential side effects of Pletal, such as dizziness and palpitations, can compromise safety. According to Australian law, if medication use affects a person's ability to drive safely, it must be reported. Patients should be cautious and evaluate how they feel after taking Pletal.

Q&A — “Can I drive after taking it in Australia?”

Q: Is it safe to drive after taking Pletal?
A: You should assess how Pletal affects you; if experiencing dizziness or disturbances, avoid driving until you feel safe.

Usage Basics

Understanding the usage of Pletal is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

INN, Brand Names Available in Australia

Cilostazol is the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for Pletal, which is the sole brand available in Australia, marketed in 100 mg tablet form.

Legal Classification (TGA-Approved, PBS-Listed)

Cilostazol is a prescription-only medication approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia. It's also listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it accessible for patients who meet specific criteria. The availability of Pletal under the PBS signifies an important step in ensuring that those suffering from intermittent claudication due to peripheral arterial disease have access to necessary treatments, further emphasising the importance of proper medical supervision.

Dosing Guide

Getting the dosing right for Pletal is vital for achieving the desired therapeutic benefits.

Standard Regimens (PBS Reference Dosing)

The suggested dosage for adults using Pletal is 100 mg taken orally twice a day, ideally 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours afterward. It's essential to evaluate the treatment within a period of 4 to 12 weeks to determine its effectiveness.

Adjustments for Comorbidities

In general, elderly patients or those with mild renal impairment do not require routine dosing adjustments. However, extra caution is advised for individuals with moderate to severe hepatic impairment, where contraindications play a significant role.

Q&A — “What if I miss a dose?”

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Pletal?
A: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double up.

Interaction Chart

Food and drinks (alcohol, coffee, Australian diet context)

When considering the use of Pletal, or cilostazol, diet plays a significant role. Patients should steer clear of alcohol consumption, as it may heighten side effects, particularly dizziness, which can be exacerbated when combined with this medication. For coffee drinkers, moderation is key—caffeine acts as a stimulant and can interfere with the effects of cilostazol. In the context of the Australian diet, maintaining a balanced approach while taking Pletal is crucial for optimal health and effective symptom management.

Common drug conflicts

Pletal isn't without its interactions, particularly with medications that are either strong CYP3A4 or CYP2C19 inhibitors. This can lead to elevated levels of cilostazol in the blood, potentially increasing adverse effects. It’s essential for patients to be aware that medicines like warfarin and other anticoagulants can have amplified effects when combined with Pletal. This means a careful review of medication lists and potential interactions is vital when starting cilostazol therapy.

User Reports & Trends

Feedback from patients regarding Pletal is quite varied, highlighting both positive outcomes and notable setbacks. A number of users have reported substantial relief from the symptoms of intermittent claudication, experiencing improved walking distances and reduced pain during physical activity. Platforms such as ProductReview showcase numerous success stories, indicating a level of satisfaction with symptom management. However, it's important to consider the downside: many patients also report side effects. Headaches and gastrointestinal issues are commonly noted, leading some to discontinue after a trial period. As with any medication, individual experiences can vary significantly.

Access & Purchase Options

National chains (Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, TerryWhite)

In Australia, obtaining Pletal is straightforward, with major pharmacy chains like Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and TerryWhite Chemmart stocking it regularly. Competitive pricing is often aligned with the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it accessible for many Australian patients seeking effective treatment for intermittent claudication.

Online pharmacies and telehealth e-prescriptions

With the rise of online pharmacies, patients can now easily purchase Pletal, especially with the burgeoning telehealth services available in both urban and rural settings. E-prescriptions are simplifying this process, allowing for safe and convenient access to needed medication without the hassle of traditional pharmacy visits. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for those who may face mobility issues or live in remote locations.

Mechanism & Pharmacology

Simplified explanation

Cilostazol, marketed as Pletal, operates as a phosphodiesterase III inhibitor. This mechanism leads to increased vasodilation and decreases platelet aggregation, enhancing blood flow in peripheral arteries. As a result, it effectively alleviates symptoms associated with claudication, providing significant relief to patients who struggle with physical activity due to their condition.

Clinical terms

In more technical terms, Pletal works by blocking the breakdown of cyclic AMP, resulting in elevated levels of cyclic AMP that facilitate vasodilation and curtail the formation of blood clots. These actions are particularly important for managing peripheral arterial disease, making cilostazol a vital tool in the clinical management of this condition. Understanding these mechanisms can empower patients with knowledge about how their treatment works at a biological level.

Indications & Off-Label Uses

Approved indications by TGA

Pletal, the brand name for cilostazol, is primarily indicated for managing intermittent claudication resulting from peripheral arterial disease. Patients with this condition often suffer from pain and cramping in the legs during physical activity, impacting their daily lives.

This medication helps by improving walking distance and enhancing overall quality of life. As such, it plays a crucial role in reducing the debilitating symptoms of peripheral arterial disease.

Off-label uses in Australian clinical practice

While Pletal is approved for specific indications, there are off-label uses observed in Australian clinical settings. Some practitioners prescribe cilostazol for chronic heart failure and coronary artery disease. However, it is essential to approach these applications with careful consideration of each patient's unique condition, as evidence supporting these uses may vary.

Key Clinical Findings

Recent clinical studies conducted between 2022 and 2025 have shed light on cilostazol's effectiveness. Results demonstrate significant improvements in exercise capacity and a reduction of symptoms in patients facing moderate vascular issues.

Comparative trials show cilostazol's advantages over alternative treatments such as Pentoxifylline. These findings bolster its position within Australian guidelines for treating peripheral arterial disease, affirming its efficacy in enhancing patient outcomes.

Alternatives Matrix

PBS-listed alternatives comparison table

Name	INN	Class	Availability
Pentoxifylline	Pentoxifylline	Xanthine derivative vasodilator	PBS listed
Naftidrofuryl	Naftidrofuryl oxalate	5-HT antagonist vasodilator	Limited availability

Pros and cons checklist

• Pros: Effective for claudication, improved exercise tolerance.
• Cons: Side effects may include headaches and it requires a prescription.

Common Questions

Patients often have inquiries about cilostazol, particularly regarding potential medication interactions, side effects, and implications of long-term Pletal use. Common questions include:

• What are the side effects of Pletal?
• Can Pletal interact with other medications?
• What should be considered for long-term treatment with cilostazol?

Addressing these issues is vital for ensuring effective management of peripheral artery disease while minimising risk factors.

Suggested Visual Content

To improve patient understanding, consider using infographics that highlight:

• PBS pricing for Pletal.
• Illustrations of the pharmacy network in Australia.
• Diagrams explaining cilostazol's mechanism of action.

These resources serve as excellent tools for fostering discussions between healthcare providers and patients, enhancing knowledge of Pletal and its applications in treating peripheral arterial disease.

Delivery Information

City	Region	Delivery time
Sydney	New South Wales	5–7 days
Melbourne	Victoria	5–7 days
Brisbane	Queensland	5–7 days
Perth	Western Australia	5–7 days
Adelaide	South Australia	5–7 days
Canberra	Australian Capital Territory	5–7 days
Hobart	Tasmania	5–9 days
Darwin	Northern Territory	5–9 days
Gold Coast	Queensland	5–7 days
Geelong	Victoria	5–9 days
Newcastle	New South Wales	5–9 days
Cairns	Queensland	5–9 days