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Sickle Cell Disease (Sickle Cell Anemia) »
Sickle cell anemia (sickle cell disease) is a disorder of the blood caused by an inherited abnormal hemoglobin (an oxygen-carrying protein within the red blood cells). The abnormal hemoglobin causes distorted (sickled) red blood cells. The sickled red blood cells are fragile and prone to rupture. When the number of red blood cells decreases from rupture (hemolysis), anemia is the result. This condition is referred to as sickle cell anemia. The irregular sickled cells can also block blood vessels causing tissue and organ damage and pain.
Sickle cell anemia is one of the most common inherited blood anemias. The disease primarily affects Africans and African Americans. It is estimated that in the United States, some 50,000 African Americans are afflicted with the most severe form of sickle cell anemia. Overall, current estimates are that one in 1,875 U.S. African American is affected with sickle cell anemia./...
Pentoxifylline changes the shape of red blood cells in your blood. This makes it easier for these blood cells to fit into small arteries (blood vessels).
Pentoxifylline is used to improve blood flow. Improved blood flow helps to reduce leg cramps and other symptoms of vascular disease (disease related to veins and arteries).
Pentoxifylline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking pentoxifylline and seek medical attention:
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take pentoxifylline and talk to your doctor if you experience
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole. They are specially coated to protect your stomach.
Do not stop taking this medication suddenly. It may take up to 8 weeks for you to see beneficial effects from pentoxifylline.
Tobacco may worsen your condition or decrease the beneficial effects of pentoxifylline by narrowing your blood vessels. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have a tobacco habit.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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