Pentoxifylline (Trental) is an oral medication that improves microcirculation and is scientifically proven to accelerate venous ulcer healing when added to compression therapy. It is considered the only pharmacological treatment showing clear benefit.
How It Works:
- Reduces blood viscosity: Makes red blood cells more flexible, passing easily through tiny capillaries.
- Inhibits inflammation: Reduces white blood cell activity causing chronic inflammation around the ulcer.
- Improves oxygen delivery: More oxygen to tissues means faster healing.
- Reduces fibrin formation: Excess fibrin around capillaries blocks nutrient delivery.
Dosage and Use:
- Dose: 400mg three times daily.
- Duration: At least 6 months for best results.
- Side effects: Mild stomach upset — improves when taken with food.
- Contraindications: Active bleeding, allergy to xanthine derivatives.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we prescribe pentoxifylline as part of the comprehensive plan with compression and dressings for refractory venous ulcers.