provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Cilostazol Coupon - Cilostazol 100mg tablet

cilostazol

Generic Pletal
Used for Peripheral Artery Disease
Used for Peripheral Artery Disease

Cilostazol is a leg pain medication that helps adults with poor blood flow from a condition called intermittent claudication. It can help you walk longer distances with less pain or discomfort. Cilostazol belongs to a group of medications called PDE-3 inhibitors. It comes as a tablet that you take by mouth, usually twice a day on an empty stomach — at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after breakfast and dinner. Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, and abnormal stools.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 21, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesImagesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Cilostazol?

What is Cilostazol used for?

How Cilostazol works

Cilostazol is a phosphodiesterase III (PDE-3) inhibitor. It works by blocking an enzyme (protein) called PDE-3. This helps keep platelets in your blood from sticking together, which improves blood flow. It also helps relax blood vessels in the legs, which can relieve pain and make it easier for you to move.

When does Cilostazol start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsPletal (brand no longer available)
Drug ClassPDE-3 inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$143.68(save 83.30%)
GoodRx discount
$24.00
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Cilostazol?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Headache (34%)
  • Diarrhea (19%)
  • Abnormal stools (15%)
  • Heart palpitations (10%)
  • Dizziness (10%)
  • Sore throat (10%)
  • Infection (10%)

Other Side Effects

  • Swelling in your legs or feet
  • Stuffy nose
  • Indigestion
  • Stomach pain
  • Fast heartbeat

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart problems: fast heartbeat, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure
  • Serious allergic reactions: hives, swollen face or tongue, trouble breathing or wheezing, dizziness

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Fast or irregular heartbeat

fever

Less common

Abnormal bleeding

bloody or black tarry stools

bruises or red spots on the skin

fainting

nausea, heartburn, or indigestion (severe or continuing)

nosebleeds

stiff neck

stomach pain, cramping, or burning (severe)

swelling of the tongue

vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

Incidence not known

Bleeding gums

bleeding tendency

blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin

blood in the urine or stools

blurred vision

chest pain

chills

clay-colored stools

confusion

cough or hoarseness

coughing up blood

dark urine

diarrhea

difficulty with breathing

drowsiness

fever with or without chills

general feeling of tiredness or weakness

headache, sudden and severe

inability to speak

itching of the eyes

itching of the skin

joint or muscle pain

light-colored stools

loss of appetite

loss of consciousness

lower back or side pain

nausea and vomiting

painful or difficult urination

pinpoint red spots on the skin

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

red, irritated eyes

seizures

skin rash

slurred speech

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

stomach pain

swollen glands

temporary blindness

unpleasant breath odor

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

weakness in the arm or leg on one side of the body, sudden and severe

weakness of part of the body

yellow eyes or skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Dizziness or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Back pain

dizziness

gas

headache

increased cough

pain or stiffness in the muscles

pounding heartbeat

runny or stuffy nose

sore throat

swelling of the arms or legs

Less common

Bone pain

burning feeling in the throat or chest

difficulty with swallowing

hives

pain or stiffness in the joints

ringing or buzzing in the ears

swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs

Incidence not known

Bruising

feeling of warmth

pain

redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Cilostazol

thumbs-up

Pros

Helps you walk further with less pain

Comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Can take 2 to 4 weeks before symptoms start to improve

Interacts with certain foods and medications

Not safe for people with heart failure

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Cilostazol

pharmacist

  • Take cilostazol on an empty stomach, so space it apart from your meals. You should take it at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after you eat breakfast and dinner to help your body absorb the medication better.

    • Don't eat or drink grapefruit products while taking cilostazol. Grapefruit can raise the amount of medication in your body and raise the risk of side effects.

      • Some people start feeling better after 2 weeks of taking cilostazol, but it can take longer for others. If you don’t notice any improvement after 3 months, talk to your prescriber. You might need to try something else.

        • Cilostazol can interact with several medications. Be sure to tell your prescriber and pharmacist about everything you're taking to help prevent serious problems.

          • Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding while taking cilostazol. There isn't enough research to say for sure if it’s safe. Your care team will help you decide what’s best.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Cilostazol

            Is cilostazol a blood thinner?
            Even though cilostazol isn't considered a traditional blood thinner, it does have blood-thinning effects. The medication keeps your platelets from clumping together, which means it's less likely for a clot to form. This helps your blood flow more smoothly through your body. Because of this, you might have a higher chance of bleeding while taking cilostazol. It's important to tell your prescriber right away if you notice any signs of unusual bleeding.
            How long does cilostazol stay in your system?
            A dose of cilostazol can stay in your system for 2 to 3 days. This is based on the medication's half-life, which is the time it takes for half of the medication to leave your body. This timing can be a little different for each person. If you have questions about how long it stays in your body, talk to your prescriber.
            What should you avoid while taking cilostazol?
            While taking cilostazol, you should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can raise the amount of medication in your body and cause more side effects. You should also be careful with certain medications, especially those that block an enzyme called CYP3A4 or CYP2C19 — these are known as CYP inhibitors. Some antibiotics, antifungals, and heart medications fall into this group and can affect how your body breaks down cilostazol. This can lead to higher levels of the medication in your system and raise the risk of side effects. To stay safe, make sure your prescriber and pharmacist know about all the medications you take.
            Can I stop taking cilostazol?
            You shouldn’t stop taking cilostazol without talking to your prescriber first. Even if you don’t feel much difference or start feeling better, stopping suddenly could make your symptoms worse. If you’re having side effects, let your prescriber know so they can help adjust your treatment safely.
            How long does it take cilostazol to work?
            Cilostazol can start working in as little as 2 weeks, but it can take up to 12 weeks to feel the full benefits. It’s important to keep taking the medication as prescribed, even if you don’t feel a big change right away. If you haven’t seen improvement after 3 months, talk to your prescriber — they might adjust your treatment.
            Can cilostazol and clopidogrel be taken together?
            Yes, cilostazol and clopidogrel can be taken together, but only under the close guidance of your prescriber. Both medications help prevent blood clots, but they work in different ways. Taking them together can raise the risk of bleeding, so your care team will weigh the benefits and keep a close eye on any side effects. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and let them know about any unusual bruising or bleeding.
            Can cilostazol lower blood pressure?
            It can. Low blood pressure is a possible side effect of cilostazol. Be careful if you take medications that lower blood pressure as this could make the effect stronger. Let your prescriber know if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or confused since these could be signs that your blood pressure is too low.
            Can you buy cilostazol over the counter?
            No. Cilostazol is only available with a prescription from a healthcare professional (HCP).
            GoodRxEducationalIcon

            How to save using GoodRx

            Compare Prices
            1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
            Select your free coupon
            2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
            Show coupon to your pharmacist
            3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
            Get free couponLearn more
            warings-icon

            What are the risks and warnings for Cilostazol?

            Cilostazol can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Not safe for people with heart failure

            • Risk factors: History of heart failure

              You shouldn't take cilostazol if you have heart failure, even if it's mild. Similar medications that block PDE-3 have been shown to raise the risk of death in people with heart failure. Make sure to tell your prescriber about your medical history before starting cilostazol.

              risk-warning

              Fast heart rate

              • Risk factors: History of heart problems

                Cilostazol can cause your heart to beat faster or irregularly, and it can also lower your blood pressure. If you have a history of heart problems, you might be at higher risk for chest pain (angina) or a heart attack while taking this medication. Let your prescriber know right away if you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or notice changes in your heartbeat.

                risk-warning

                Blockage in the heart's blood flow

                • Risk factors: Having a certain heart shape

                  Some people with a certain heart shape (called a sigmoid-shaped interventricular septum) have developed a heart problem called left ventricular outflow tract obstruction while taking cilostazol. This means the path where blood leaves your heart can get too narrow, making it harder for your heart to pump blood to the rest of your body. Your prescriber might listen for a new heart murmur or check for other heart symptoms after you start taking cilostazol. Tell your care team if you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other new symptoms while using this medication.

                  risk-warning

                  Changes in blood cell counts

                  Some people have had low platelet or white blood cell counts while taking cilostazol, which can make it harder for your body to fight off infections. Your prescriber might check your blood tests from time to time to make sure your platelets and white blood cells stay at healthy levels.

                  risk-warning

                  Bleeding problems

                  • Risk factors: Bleeding conditions

                    Cilostazol can raise your risk of bleeding because it makes it harder for your blood to clot. This can be dangerous if you already have a bleeding condition. Tell your care team about your medical history before starting this medication, and watch for signs of unusual bleeding like easy bruising, bleeding that’s hard to stop, red or dark urine, or coughing up blood.

                    dosage

                    Cilostazol dosage forms

                    The average cost for 180 tablets of 100mg of Cilostazol is $24.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 83.3% off the average retail price of $143.68.
                    tablet
                    Tablet
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    50mg180 tablets$24.00$0.13
                    100mg180 tablets$24.00$0.13

                    Typical dosing for Cilostazol

                    The typical dose is 100 mg by mouth two times a day on an empty stomach — at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after eating breakfast and dinner.

                    Your dose might be lower if you're also taking medications that interact with cilostazol.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Cilostazol and other drugs

                    Cilostazol may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Cilostazol. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    • Defibrotide

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    drug-cost

                    How much does Cilostazol cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                    Cilostazol (generic)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $24.00

                    (save 83.30%)
                    View prices & coupons
                    contraindications-icon

                    Cilostazol contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Cilostazol will not be safe for you to take.

                    • Heart failure

                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Cilostazol?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Cilostazol. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Cilostazol
                    Used for:
                    $24.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Pentoxifylline ER
                    Used for:
                    $21.47 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    images

                    Cilostazol images

                    White Round 54 757 - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "54 757".White Round 54 757 - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    White Round 7231 And Teva - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Teva" And "7231".White Round 7231 And Teva - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    White Round E 223 - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "E 223".White Round E 223 - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    White Round Cil 100 And Apo - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Apo" And "Cil 100".White Round Cil 100 And Apo - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    White Round Cor 159 - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Cor 159".White Round Cor 159 - Cilostazol 100mg Tablet

                    Get savings updates for Cilostazol

                    Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Cilostazol and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                    By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                    Browse medications

                    View All

                    Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.