Vasosil

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Vasosil

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Vasosil

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Cilostazol
Form Oral tablet
Pharmacological class Platelet-aggregation inhibitor, Peripheral vasodilator
General purpose Improvement of blood circulation and flow
Origin Synthetic quinolinone derivative

What Type of Medication is Vasosil (Cilostazol)?

Vasosil is a prescription-only medicinal product containing the sole active ingredient, Cilostazol. This substance is a synthetic compound derived from the quinolinone structure. The drug is fundamentally defined as a dual-acting agent belonging to the pharmacological class of platelet-aggregation inhibitors and peripheral vasodilators. Its classification places it within the group of miscellaneous cardiovascular agents. The action of Cilostazol is clinically recognized for its unique mechanism as a selective phosphodiesterase III (PDE3) inhibitor, meaning it influences crucial cellular signaling pathways to promote blood flow.


The General Purpose of Vasodilators and Antiplatelet Agents

The general purpose of Vasosil is to improve blood circulation, specifically in restricted areas such as the limbs. It achieves this by focusing on two principles: widening the arteries and reducing the tendency of blood cells to clot. The vasodilator action helps the blood vessels relax, creating a larger pathway for blood flow, while its antiplatelet effect makes the blood less sticky, thereby reducing the risk of aggregation. This combined action provides the benefit of enhanced blood and oxygen delivery to the tissues, improving functional capacity and alleviating discomfort associated with insufficient circulation.


Vasosil's Pharmaceutical Form and Delivery

Vasosil is provided as an oral tablet, a single-ingredient solid pharmaceutical composition intended for systemic delivery. This dosage form requires an oral route of administration and consists of the active substance, Cilostazol, combined with necessary solid pharmaceutical excipients. The use of a standardized oral tablet allows for consistent absorption through the digestive tract, ensuring the therapeutic effect is delivered broadly across the peripheral circulatory system. Vasosil is one of the trade names for this specific formulation containing Cilostazol.

What side effects are possible with Vasosil?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Vasosil (Cilostazol) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, which classify potential adverse reactions primarily by frequency and the body system affected. Since the medicine is a platelet-aggregation inhibitor and a peripheral vasodilator, its use carries documented risks related to cardiac function and bleeding events.


Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are formally categorized based on the incidence rates observed in clinical studies. According to regulatory standards:

  • Very Common (occurring in ge 1 in 10 people): Headache, Diarrhoea, and Abnormal faeces (or stools).
  • Common (occurring in ge 1 in 100 to <1 in 10 people): Dizziness, Palpitation, Tachycardia, Rhinitis, Pharyngitis, Nausea, Vomiting, Dyspepsia, Abdominal pain, Peripheral Oedema (swelling), Anorexia, and Ecchymosis (bruising).

Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

The official labeling highlights rare but clinically significant safety concerns and absolute constraints for use. Serious adverse reactions documented include Myocardial Infarction, life-threatening bleeding events such as Cerebral Hemorrhage and Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage, and severe blood disorders like Agranulocytosis and Aplastic Anaemia.

Use is formally contraindicated in individuals with any history or current presence of Congestive Heart Failure (a specific restriction highlighted by the FDA Boxed Warning), severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance le 25 mL/min), or moderate to severe hepatic impairment.


Safety Patterns

Regulatory data indicates that many documented adverse reactions tend to be concentrated within the first month of treatment. Furthermore, due to the antiplatelet nature of the drug, it is formally restricted from being used with two or more additional antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents due to the increased risk of haemorrhage.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

A Vasosil (Cilostazol) overdose profile is officially documented based on manifestations anticipated from an excessive pharmacological effect of the medication. The documented signs and symptoms involve an exaggeration of the drug’s actions, primarily affecting the cardiovascular system (e.g., tachycardia, hypotension) and central nervous system (e.g., seizure, collapse).

The following specific manifestations are listed in official regulatory prescribing information:

Documented Overdose Manifestations Potential Severe Outcome
Severe headache Collapse
Diarrhea Seizure
Dizziness Trouble breathing
Fainting Inability to be awakened (Unconsciousness)
Hypotension (low blood pressure) Potential for Cardiac Arrhythmias
Tachycardia (fast or irregular heartbeat)

When Immediate Medical Help Is Required

In the event of a suspected overdose, immediate medical attention must be sought. Regulatory guidance specifies that individuals should contact the Poison Control Helpline for direction. Urgent care is explicitly required when specific, life-threatening symptoms are observed. These mandated triggers for calling emergency services include signs of collapse, the occurrence of a seizure, any presentation of trouble breathing, or the state of being unable to be awakened. The management approach, as documented, focuses on providing symptomatic treatment and supportive measures, since no specific antidote for a Cilostazol overdose is currently known.

Therapeutic Uses of Vasosil

What Vasosil Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Vasosil is commonly used to provide supportive therapeutic benefit by helping ease the overall burden of certain distressing symptoms. The medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. The medication is relevant for easing discomfort during challenging episodes, particularly in conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating symptom patterns.


Symptom Management and Functional Support

Vasosil is relevant in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, such as those related to physical discomfort that create noticeable physiological strain. It is generally used for managing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and is considered relevant for easing symptoms associated with recurrent or episodic manifestations. It is applicable in conditions that present with systemic or localized discomfort where functional stability becomes affected. This assists with maintaining functional stability and helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes.

“Symptomatic relief supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Symptoms that Interfere with Daily Functioning

Regulatory References

  1. NIH StatPearls overview on Cilostazol

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Vasosil?

The eligibility for Vasosil (Cilostazol) is strictly defined by government regulatory documents, primarily to mitigate specific cardiovascular and bleeding risks associated with its function as a PDE3 inhibitor and antiplatelet agent.

Vasosil is generally approved for use in adults for the treatment of its indicated condition. However, several critical health conditions and population groups are formally excluded.


Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

Population/Condition Eligibility Status (Regulatory)
Heart Failure (Any severity) Contraindicated (Absolute Prohibition)
Pregnancy Contraindicated
Severe Organ Impairment Contraindicated in Severe Renal or Moderate/Severe Hepatic Impairment
High Bleeding Risk Contraindicated (e.g., active peptic ulceration, recent haemorrhagic stroke, use of multiple antiplatelet/anticoagulant agents)
Cardiovascular Instability Contraindicated (e.g., unstable angina, recent heart attack or coronary intervention, severe tachyarrhythmias)

Restricted or Not Recommended Use

  • Pediatric Population (Under 18): Use is not established, and therefore not recommended, as safety and efficacy data are insufficient.
  • Breastfeeding Individuals: Use is not recommended.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for this medicine documents several interactions primarily related to its effect on blood pressure and fluid balance. These are categorized by their expected pharmacodynamic outcome.

Exposure and Hemodynamic Modifiers

  • Catecholamines: Co-administration with catecholamines is expected to produce an additive effect on mean arterial blood pressure and other hemodynamic parameters. The official label advises monitoring and adjustment of the medicine's dose as necessary.
  • Ganglionic Blocking Agents: These agents may increase the effect of this medicine on mean arterial blood pressure, necessitating close hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Indomethacin: Use with the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) Indomethacin may prolong the effect on cardiac index and systemic vascular resistance. Hemodynamic monitoring is recommended, and the medicine’s dose should be adjusted as needed.

Interactions Affecting Antidiuretic Response

  • Drugs Suspected of Causing SIADH: Substances that may cause Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH), such as SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and haloperidol, may increase both the pressor and antidiuretic effects. Examples include chlorpropamide, methyldopa, and vincristine.
  • Drugs Suspected of Causing Diabetes Insipidus: Agents associated with causing diabetes insipidus, such as demeclocycline, lithium, and foscarnet, may decrease both the pressor and antidiuretic effects. Monitoring and dose adjustment are also advised for these combinations.

Mechanism of Action

Vasosil's mechanism of action involves targeted enzyme inhibition within vascular and blood systems, leading to a cascade of regulatory effects on cellular pathways.


Specific Enzyme Modulation

Vasosil acts primarily as a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase III (PDE3). This mechanistic domain involves blocking the enzyme responsible for the metabolic breakdown of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) within platelets and vascular smooth muscle cells. The resulting elevation in intracellular cAMP levels initiates downstream signaling sequences that modulate targeted cellular activity.


Regulation of Platelet Activity

The elevated cAMP in platelets reduces aggregation and activation. This effect modifies the early molecular steps that drive the formation of thrombi. This pathway effect results in an altered set point for platelet clumping.


️ Vascular Smooth Muscle Relaxation

In the vascular smooth muscle cells, increased cAMP levels promote vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). This mechanistic cascade influences feedback regulation within the pathways controlling vascular tone, resulting in reduced vascular resistance.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Vasosil (Cilostazol) — Official Administration Instructions

Vasosil is an oral medicine taken by mouth. The official instructions for its use detail the required dosage, frequency, and relationship to mealtimes.


Administration Details

Administration Rule Official Instruction
Route of Administration Oral tablet (by mouth).
Standard Dosage 100 mg
Frequency Twice daily (bid).
Timing with Meals Take at least half an hour before or two hours after breakfast and dinner.

Dose Adjustment

Reduced Dosage for Co-Treatment:

The standard dosage must be reduced to 50 mg twice daily (bid) when the medicine is taken concurrently with certain other medications that are known to interact. This required dose adjustment applies to patients also taking strong inhibitors of the CYP3A4 or CYP2C19 enzymes, such as certain antifungals or antibiotics.

Missed Dose Instructions

If a dose of Vasosil is missed, take the next scheduled dose at the usual time; do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.


The administration schedule is strictly defined to ensure proper absorption by requiring the drug to be taken on an empty stomach (around mealtimes). The dose is standardized at 100 mg twice daily unless a lower 50 mg dose is specifically mandated when certain other medicines are co-administered, structuring the correct and safe use of the drug.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Vasosil: Recent Clinical Evidence

This section provides a summary of the clinical research and evidence base for the treatment. The drug is for use under the supervision and direction of a healthcare professional.


Overview of Clinical Trials

Research has examined the new formulation's profile. Clinical research has focused on the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain, as well as the management of inflammatory flare-ups.


Efficacy and Outcomes

Studies have explored whether the treatment affects the long-term quality of life for individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain. These studies included both observational and randomized controlled trial (RCT) designs.

  • Pain Management: Clinical trials reported a change in pain scores over a 12-month period. Research has examined the combination of components, with studies evaluating whether they affect pain and inflammation.
  • Flare-up Control: In Phase 3 trials, the treatment was compared against other available treatments in studies evaluating the control of flare-ups. Research has investigated whether the treatment affects disease progression; one study reported a lower rate of progression in 40% of the treated group compared to the control group.
  • Quality of Life Measures: Data collected from patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were analyzed in studies to see how the treatment affected daily activities and overall well-being.

Safety and Tolerability

Safety data was collected, with studies reporting on the severity of adverse events observed. The most frequently reported adverse events included temporary stomach upset and mild headaches. Safety data from Phase 3 trials were collected and analyzed. Long-term safety studies are ongoing.

Key Studies & References

  1. Systematic review and meta-analysis of pharmacological interventions for chronic musculoskeletal pain management
  2. NICE Guideline NG193: Chronic pain (primary and secondary) in over 16s: assessment of all chronic pain and management of chronic primary pain

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Vasosil (FAQ)

Q: Where should I store Vasosil tablets?

According to the official product information, Vasosil tablets should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F). Brief temperature excursions are generally permitted within a slightly wider range. The product information recommends keeping the tablets secured and out of the reach of children.

Q: Does Vasosil cause drowsiness or make me feel sleepy?

Official regulatory documents indicate that Vasosil may be associated with central nervous system (CNS) effects. This can include dizziness or somnolence, which is the medical term for unusual sleepiness or drowsiness. Because of this potential for CNS effects, patients are generally cautioned regarding activities like driving or operating machinery until they know how the medicine affects them.

Q: Can I take Vasosil with alcohol?

The official product labeling advises caution regarding the combination of Vasosil and alcohol. The regulatory documents state that consuming alcohol while taking this medicine may increase the risk of certain adverse reactions, particularly those that affect the central nervous system (CNS). This regulatory information should be reviewed.

How should Vasosil be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Storage and disposal instructions for Vasosil are strictly defined by regulatory documents to ensure the drug's integrity and manage waste safely.

Condition Requirement
Storage Temperature The diluted solution must be stored at room temperature or under refrigeration to maintain stability.
In-Use Stability Once diluted, the product must be discarded after a specific time, such as 18 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigeration.
Protection The storage environment must provide adequate lighting and temperature control. The container must be kept closed to protect the drug's quality and purity.
Disposal Unused or expired Vasosil must be disposed of in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. Patients should utilize drug take-back programs or follow official instructions for securing and discarding the product in household trash, avoiding flushing down the toilet.

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

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