Латрен

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Латрен

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Латрен

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredient Pentoxifylline (PTX)
Forms Tablets (oral) and Aqueous Solution (injection)
Pharmacological Class Hemorheologic Agent, Vasoactive Agent
General Purpose Improvement of blood flow and microcirculation
Origin Synthetic, xanthine derivative

The Defining Identity: What Type of Medicine is Латрен?

Латрен is a specialized medicinal preparation containing the synthetic compound Pentoxifylline as its active ingredient. It is formally classified as a hemorheologic agent, reflecting its specific role in modulating the physical properties of blood, and a vasoactive agent. This dual classification is clinically recognized for addressing the factors contributing to impaired peripheral circulation. Chemically, Pentoxifylline is recognized as a tri-substituted xanthine derivative, placing it structurally within a family of compounds that includes caffeine; however, its pharmacological focus is distinctly channeled toward microcirculatory enhancement.

Composition and Available Forms of Pentoxifylline

Латрен is a single active ingredient product, containing only Pentoxifylline for its therapeutic effect. The product is manufactured in two primary dosage forms to accommodate various treatment needs: solid, oral tablets (often formulated for extended release) and a sterile aqueous solution intended for parenteral administration via injection. This dual availability is key, providing flexibility for administration—offering a convenient oral maintenance option with the tablets and a more immediate systemic delivery option with the solution. Research has established the crucial role of its metabolite in acting as a cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase inhibitor, which is central to its verified therapeutic action.

General Purpose: How Does Латрен Affect Blood Circulation?

The primary general purpose of Латрен is to support and restore adequate microcirculation, typically in patients experiencing compromised blood supply, such as insufficient blood flow to the limbs. It achieves this by acting directly on the blood itself, specifically increasing the flexibility (deformability) of red blood cells and simultaneously promoting a decrease of blood viscosity (reducing blood thickness). By making the blood less viscous and allowing red cells to navigate constricted capillaries more easily, the medication generally works to facilitate the essential delivery of oxygen and nutrients to affected tissues. This fundamental action forms the basis of its clinical utility.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH LactMed - Pentoxifylline

What side effects are possible with Латрен?

Possible Side Effects

Latren (which contains pentoxifylline and a balanced iso-osmolar electrolyte solution) is generally well-tolerated, but, like all medications, it can cause side effects. If any of the side effects listed below become severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider.

System/Body Part Common Side Effects (Frequency Not Specified) Serious/Infrequent Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)
Gastrointestinal Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, indigestion, gas, diarrhea. Bleeding in the retina or brain (Pentoxifylline should not be used in people with recent bleeding in these areas).
Cardiovascular Redness or warmth of the face or neck (flushing), headache, dizziness. Chest pain, irregular or racing heartbeat (arrhythmia), low blood pressure (hypotension).
Allergic/Skin Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or a severe, blistering, or peeling rash.

Safety and Precautions

Latren should be used with caution, particularly in patients with pre-existing conditions that may be aggravated by the medication's effects on blood flow and bleeding risk. Inform your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have:

  • Bleeding disorders or are taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications like warfarin, as concurrent use requires close monitoring.
  • Severe liver or kidney problems, which may affect how the body processes the medication.
  • Known intolerance to caffeine or theobromine, as pentoxifylline is structurally related to these substances.

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you, as dizziness is a possible side effect. If you experience signs of bleeding (e.g., unusual bruising, black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood), seek immediate medical attention.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose with Латрен (Pentoxifylline) requires immediate medical attention. The official regulatory prescribing information documents a range of manifestations, from initial symptoms to severe, potentially life-threatening outcomes. Treatment is primarily supportive, as no specific antidote is known.


Documented Overdose Manifestations and Severe Outcomes

Official labeling lists both initial and severe signs that may occur in an overdose:

  • Initial Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting (which may include coffee-ground vomiting as a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding), dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and agitation.
  • Severe Outcomes: Tonic-clonic convulsions (seizures), loss of consciousness, severe fall in blood pressure (hypotension), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). These symptoms are considered life-threatening.

Official Emergency Actions and Management

In the event of a suspected overdose, regulatory authorities mandate that patients seek emergency medical attention immediately. The therapeutic focus is on symptomatic and supportive care.

Management Component Regulator-Described Action
Antidote No specific antidote is known.
Supportive Treatment Symptomatic treatment, with attention to supporting the cardiovascular system.
Procedural Steps May include gastric lavage or activated charcoal to reduce absorption.
Monitoring Intensive medical monitoring may be necessary for the prevention of complications.

Immediate medical help is required for any suspected overdose to manage severe manifestations and prevent complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Латрен

The medication is commonly used to help with conditions marked by increased discomfort and tension related to chronic circulatory impairment. This agent is applied in addressing long-term blood flow issues to reduce symptoms related to physical discomfort like aching, cramping, and tiredness in the extremities.

The medication is commonly used to help manage symptomatic support for intermittent claudication, a key sign of chronic occlusive arterial disease. It is also considered relevant in the management of complex circulatory issues such as chronic venous insufficiency and as an adjunctive therapy for non-healing leg ulcers. This supportive approach is relevant in contexts where maintaining a sense of stability is key when symptoms become more noticeable. The medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, assisting with maintaining functional stability and contributing to improved day-to-day comfort.

Quick Fact: Supportive Management of Mobility Symptoms
Primary Symptom Managed Pain, aching, or cramping in the leg muscles during walking (Intermittent Claudication).
Supportive Role Assists with symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, such as pain during walking.
Clinical Relevance Chronic, long-term management of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

The use of Латрен (Pentoxifylline) is formally established for adults for the symptomatic treatment of chronic occlusive peripheral vascular disorders. Eligibility is defined by absolute prohibitions for specific patient populations and strict conditional use for others, as stated in regulatory labeling.


Contraindicated Populations Age-Related Eligibility
Patients with known hypersensitivity to Pentoxifylline or other methylxanthines (e.g., caffeine, theophylline). Adults are the approved population.
Individuals with recent cerebral or retinal hemorrhage. Use is not recommended in pediatric patients (under 18 years) as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or recent peptic ulceration. Geriatric patients require caution and a conservative dose selection due to potential reduced organ function.

Condition-Specific Limitations

Use is highly restricted or requires caution in patients with impaired organ function. Patients with severe hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment ( Creatinine Clearance < 30 mL/min) should generally avoid the medicine or require mandatory dose reduction. Furthermore, patients with coagulation disorders or concurrent use of anticoagulants must use the medicine with caution due to the potential for increased bleeding risk. For pregnancy, use is conditional (Category C) and not recommended unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential fetal risk. During lactation, a decision must be made to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information describes specific pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions for Pentoxifylline, primarily related to its metabolism and effects on blood viscosity.


Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Interacting Substance/Class Official Interaction Statement
Strong CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., Ciprofloxacin, Fluvoxamine) Co-administration increases the exposure (plasma concentrations) of Pentoxifylline.
Cimetidine Increases the average steady state plasma concentration of Pentoxifylline and its active Metabolite I.
Theophylline-containing drugs Co-administration leads to increased Theophylline levels and the potential for toxicity, likely due to reduced Theophylline clearance.

Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interacting Substance/Class Official Interaction Statement
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Vitamin K Antagonists) & Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors Associated with an increased risk of bleeding and/or prolonged prothrombin time. Monitoring of anticoagulant activity is recommended.
Antihypertensive Agents Observance of small decreases in blood pressure. Periodic systemic blood pressure monitoring is recommended.

Interaction-Context Constraints

Constraint Type Official Regulatory Note
Food Intake Co-administration with meals results in an increase in mean AUC (about 1.1-fold) and Cmax (about 1.3-fold) for Pentoxifylline and its active metabolite.
Impaired Renal Function (CrCl < 30 mL/min) The risk of toxic reactions may be greater due to reduced clearance of the active metabolite.
Hepatic Impairment Exposure to the parent drug and/or active metabolites may increase; the clinical significance is officially noted as unknown.

Mechanism of Action

How Латрен Works

Латрен (Pentoxifylline) modulates blood flow dynamics in the microvasculature through multiple cellular and vascular mechanisms. The drug's primary molecular action is the nonselective inhibition of Phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes, particularly PDE Type 3 and 4.

This inhibition prevents the hydrolysis of cAMP, causing its intracellular levels to increase in vascular smooth muscle cells and blood cells. In vessel walls, the cAMP accumulation contributes to peripheral vasodilation and reduced resistance to flow. Within red blood cells (RBCs), increased cAMP enhances their membrane flexibility and deformability.

This effect, combined with the drug's role in reducing the plasma protein fibrinogen and modulating platelet activity, lowers the overall blood viscosity (thickness). The integrated hemorheologic changes allow blood to navigate narrow, constricted capillaries. Furthermore, the drug modulates immune cell activity, interfering with the production and release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha, which reduces the level of localized inflammatory mediators.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Latrene (Ondansetron): Official Administration Guidelines

Latrene is a brand name often associated with the active ingredient Ondansetron. The instructions below summarize the drug's use and typical administration parameters.


Administration Scope

Feature Administration Details
Route of administration Oral (tablet, orally disintegrating tablet/ODT, solution) or Intravenous (IV) Injection/Infusion.
Dosing schedule Varies by treatment context. For Highly Emetogenic Chemotherapy (HEC), a single oral dose of 24 mg is administered 30 minutes before chemotherapy. For Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy (MEC), 8 mg is given, followed by two additional 8 mg doses 8 and 16 hours after the first dose.
Timing in relation to meals Oral formulations may be administered without regard to meals.
Preparation requirements For IV administration, the injection product must be diluted in 50 mL of 5% Dextrose or 0.9% Sodium Chloride and should not be mixed with alkaline solutions.
Age-group rules Severe Hepatic Impairment: The total daily dose must not exceed 8 mg. Pediatric dosing for chemotherapy is based on Body Surface Area (BSA) or weight.
Special procedural conditions Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODT): Should be removed from the package by peeling back the foil; do not push through. Place immediately on the tongue and allow to dissolve before swallowing with saliva. IV infusions must be administered over a minimum of 15 minutes.

Resulting Procedural Structure

The protocol mandates that the first dose is administered 30 minutes to 1 hour prior to the medical event. This precise timing is crucial to coordinate the dose with the treatment schedule. Users must strictly follow dilution guidelines for the IV form and specific handling instructions for the ODT form, such as ensuring dry hands are used. Dosing is then continued post-treatment for up to five days, or repeated according to the specific schedule (e.g., every 8 or 12 hours) based on the labeled regimen.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Латрен

Латрен (Pentoxifylline) was studied in research settings exploring specific circulatory conditions, particularly where impaired blood flow to the limbs is a factor. The available evidence comes mainly from Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and scientific reviews that synthesize findings from multiple trials. Research provides context but not individual predictions of outcomes.


Evidence for Use in Symptomatic Intermittent Claudication

Research on Латрен in this context examined adult patients with stable intermittent claudication, a condition characterized by functional limitations like pain and cramping in the legs during walking. Studies monitored how symptoms evolved by measuring outcomes related to physical discomfort, primarily by assessing Pain-Free Walking Distance (PFWD) and Total Walking Distance (TWD) on a treadmill. Findings described in systematic reviews of these trials described the measured outcomes when comparing Латрен to a placebo. Findings across different trials were mixed, noting considerable heterogeneity (differences) in study designs. The evidence regarding the magnitude of change in walking distance is considered by scientific reviews to have Low to Moderate Certainty.


Evidence for Use in Healing Non-Healing Venous Leg Ulcers

The research here primarily involved Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) where Латрен was evaluated in adult patients with confirmed venous leg ulcers. Studies explored the use of Латрен alongside standard treatment, such as compression therapy. Meta-analyses summarizing these studies reported patterns where complete ulcer healing was associated with the inclusion of Латрен alongside compression therapy, when compared to compression and placebo alone. The evidence supporting this use is generally characterized as having Moderate Certainty.


What is Still Uncertain About the Research for Латрен

Major trials typically had follow-up durations ranging from a few months up to one year. As a result, long-term outcomes are not fully established for either condition. Furthermore, data for certain groups remain insufficient, as the primary studies focused on the general adult population and often excluded patients with multiple significant pre-existing health conditions or severe stages of vascular disease. Research has not fully established the potential role of Латрен in relation to outcomes such as long-term survival or the recurrence of chronic venous ulcers, as these were not fully established endpoints in the primary research.

Key Studies & References Cilostazol, naftidrofuryl oxalate, pentoxifylline and inositol nicotinate for the treatment of intermittent claudication in people with peripheral arterial disease (NICE Technology Appraisal Guidance TA223)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Латрен (FAQ)


Q: What are the most commonly reported side effects when starting Латрен?

A: Латрен is generally well-tolerated, and adverse effects are often reported during the initial period of treatment. These most frequently reported effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Effects related to the nervous system, like headache and dizziness, are also commonly noted in the official product information.


Q: Does the research for Латрен include studies on long-term use?

A: Studies examining the effects of Латрен typically assessed outcomes over follow-up periods of up to one year. As a result, certain long-term outcomes, such as the potential impact on survival or the recurrence of chronic conditions, are not yet fully established by the primary research evidence.


Q: Does taking Латрен require any special dietary considerations?

A: Official product information notes that the extended-release tablets are generally administered with meals. This is typically recommended to help minimize the possibility of gastrointestinal upset. It is also noted that taking the drug with food may increase its concentration in the bloodstream.


Q: Is Латрен available in different strengths or formulations?

A: According to the product information, the active ingredient in Латрен is available in two main forms. These are an oral, extended-release tablet and a sterile aqueous solution intended for intravenous (IV) administration. The oral tablets are available in a common strength, as listed in the full prescribing information.


Q: What medical conditions is Латрен approved to treat?

A: Regulatory documents state that Латрен is FDA-approved for the symptomatic treatment of intermittent claudication. This is a condition involving chronic occlusive arterial disease that causes pain or cramping in the legs during exercise.


Q: Is Латрен considered a first-line treatment for its main indication?

A: Clinical guidelines and authoritative summaries generally note that Латрен is not recommended as a first-line therapy for intermittent claudication. It is often considered a second-line treatment option, particularly when primary therapies are unsuitable or ineffective.


Q: How does the effect of Латрен generally differ from similar prescribed medicines?

A: Латрен is unique in its classification as a hemorheologic agent, meaning it acts directly on the physical properties of blood. Its primary effect is to increase red blood cell flexibility and decrease blood viscosity (thickness), which distinguishes its mechanism of action from the mechanisms of other common circulatory treatments.


Q: Is there a generic version of Латрен available for prescription?

A: Yes, the active ingredient, Pentoxifylline, is widely available in generic forms. These generic versions are manufactured by various companies and can be prescribed in addition to the original branded product.


Q: Can taking Латрен affect a person's sleep patterns?

A: Official product information indicates that the medicine may affect sleep patterns. Reported nervous system effects include both increased sleepiness or drowsiness, and the opposite effect, such as difficulty sleeping or agitation.


Q: Is it true that Латрен can cause changes in appetite?

A: Some authoritative resources associated with the product's regulatory profile list loss of appetite (medically referred to as anorexia) as a potential adverse effect. This indicates that changes in appetite are a possibility that has been documented.


Q: Does Латрен interact with alcohol consumption?

A: Regulatory information describes a moderate interaction risk between this medication and alcohol consumption. Due to potential drug effects, the combination is associated with the need for caution.


Q: Are there known interactions between Латрен and common over-the-counter cold medicines?

A: The drug is known to interact with specific compounds found in many over-the-counter (OTC) products, including cold medicines. Interactions with components like acetaminophen are generally categorized as requiring caution or clinical monitoring.


Q: Should I avoid specific vitamins or herbal supplements while using Латрен?

A: Official information indicates the need for caution regarding certain herbal or vitamin supplements. Specific supplements like ginkgo, garlic, and chondroitin may amplify the drug's effects on the blood, which could potentially increase the risk of bleeding.


Q: How long after starting treatment should the intended effects of Латрен become apparent?

A: The therapeutic effects of Латрен are not immediate. Assessment of clinical improvement is generally considered only after treatment has been administered for a minimum of 6 weeks. Many patients are treated for several months before full efficacy can be evaluated.


Q: What is the usual expected course or length of treatment with Латрен?

A: The anticipated length of treatment with Латрен is dependent on the specific medical condition being addressed. For its approved use in peripheral vascular disease, treatment is generally continued for a defined period that often lasts several weeks to months.


Q: If a dose of Латрен is missed, what is the general non-directive guidance provided in official documents?

A: General non-directive guidance for a missed dose is provided in the official prescribing information. This guidance details the factors governing when a forgotten dose may be taken and when it should be omitted.


Q: Are there any publicly available summaries of the main clinical trials for Латрен?

A: Yes, government-run databases are available that contain public information regarding the research on the drug. You can find public summaries of many clinical trials involving the active ingredient in Латрен on websites such as ClinicalTrials.gov.


Q: Why do some online sources discuss the use of Латрен for purposes not listed in the official documentation?

A: Regulatory documents and authoritative summaries typically distinguish the officially approved indication from other conditions. The drug may be discussed online for other purposes, such as venous leg ulcers or alcoholic hepatitis, for which it has been researched or used in an off-label manner.


Q: Does Латрен require a gradual discontinuation process according to official instructions?

A: Clinical guidelines and authoritative regulatory summaries indicate that Латрен generally does not require a gradual tapering or step-down process when it is discontinued. Unlike some medicines, a reduction in dosage before stopping is not typically necessary.


Q: Is Латрен a controlled substance or scheduled medication?

A: According to regulatory bodies in the United States, Латрен is not classified as a controlled substance. This means the medication is not subject to special restrictions regarding its prescribing and dispensing due to a high potential for abuse.


Q: Why might a doctor choose to prescribe Латрен over a similar available drug?

A: Prescribing decisions are clinical judgments, but official summaries highlight the drug's unique mechanism as a hemorheologic agent affecting blood viscosity. This difference may lead to its use when other drugs are contraindicated, such as in patients who have congestive heart failure.


Q: Is Латрен described as habit-forming or does it carry a risk of dependence?

A: Authoritative regulatory documents do not list Латрен as having potential for abuse or causing physical dependence. It is not considered a medication that is habit-forming.


Q: Does Латрен affect laboratory test results like blood work?

A: Generally, there are no effects on routine laboratory test results commonly reported in regulatory summaries. However, if the drug is administered alongside blood-thinning medications, clinical monitoring of blood parameters (like prothrombin time) is often recommended.

How should Латрен be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Handling Requirements

Official regulatory documents specify that Pentoxifylline extended-release tablets must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, which is 20^circ to 25^circC (68^circ to 77^circF). The medicine must be kept in the original container, which should remain tightly closed, and it must be protected from excess heat, moisture, and light. It is mandatory to keep this medication out of the sight and reach of children and to keep the product from freezing.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired tablets should be disposed of safely. The preferred method is returning the medication to a community-based drug take-back program. If this option is unavailable, the product may be mixed with an undesirable substance (such as dirt) and placed in a sealed container for household trash disposal. Medicines must not be thrown away via wastewater or household drains, and disposal must align with local environmental regulations.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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