On One Hand: Recognized Benefits

Pentoxifylline is prescribed for painful leg cramps caused by the hardening of the arteries that reduces the blood supply to your leg muscles. In diabetics, this is usually caused by the nerve and circulatory problems that are common effects of the disease. A 1985 study of 90 qualifying patients revealed that 74 percent who used the drug experienced a 500 percent increase in pain-free mobility.

On the Other: Serious Possible Side Effects

While pentoxifylline is proven to help reduce leg pain and increase mobility in most diabetic patients, the side effects can be egregious. They may include allergic reactions that can result in swelling of the face, tongue, lips, throat and extremities, difficulty swallowing, chills and fever and chest pain. Patients might also experience anxiety, vision problems and mental and emotional disturbances. Plus, some patients suffer flu-like symptoms, headaches, hives, gallbladder problems, seizures and more.

Bottom Line

Pentoxifylline 's typically mild side effects are tolerable for most patients. In fact, only about 3 percent of patients using the drug actually discontinue it due to side effects. And side effects are often reduced with continued use of the drug. Thus, significant pain reduction along with improved mobility makes pentoxifylline a feasible treatment for most sufferers of diabetes leg pain.

Source:

1985 Pentoxifylline Study Summary

Pentoxifylline Information

Side Effects Information