Cyclandelate

Usage

Cyclandelate is a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels. It was prescribed for conditions involving poor blood circulation, such as intermittent claudication (leg pain on exertion), arteriosclerosis obliterans (hardening of the arteries in the limbs), cerebrovascular insufficiency (poor blood flow to the brain), Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold and numb fingers and toes), and nocturnal leg cramps.

Please note: Cyclandelate’s distribution was discontinued in the US by Wyeth-Ayerst in April 1997, and its efficacy for the above-mentioned indications is considered “ineffective” by the FDA. It may still be available in some regions outside the US, but its use is not generally recommended due to lack of strong evidence supporting its benefits.

Alternate Names

• Generic Name: Cyclandelate
• Brand Name: Cyclospasmol (discontinued)

How It Works

Pharmacodynamics: Cyclandelate is a direct-acting vasodilator. It relaxes the smooth muscles in the blood vessel walls, leading to vasodilation. This reduces peripheral vascular resistance and allows increased blood flow.

Pharmacokinetics: Information on cyclandelate’s pharmacokinetics is limited. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination pathways have not been extensively studied. It is administered orally and its effectiveness is thought to be related to its effect on smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. It does not have antimicrobial properties or a specific mechanism of action against particular pathogens.

Mode of Action: Cyclandelate’s primary action involves inhibiting calcium ion influx into vascular smooth muscle cells, reducing vascular resistance and increasing blood flow. It is also believed to have some anti-platelet aggregation effects.

Receptor Binding, Enzyme Inhibition, or Neurotransmitter Modulation: Specific details on receptor binding, enzyme inhibition, or neurotransmitter modulation by cyclandelate are not readily available in the provided sources.

Dosage

Due to cyclandelate being discontinued in many regions and a lack of clear clinical evidence for its efficacy, dosage recommendations cannot be provided here. Any use of this medication should be under strict medical supervision and only where it remains available.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset (belching, heartburn, nausea, stomach pain)
• Flushing
• Sweating
• Tingling sensation in the face, fingers, or toes
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fast heartbeat

Rare but Serious Side Effects

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Long-Term Effects

Data on long-term effects of cyclandelate is limited.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to cyclandelate
• Acute phase of stroke
• Severe obliterative coronary artery disease

Caution is advised in patients with:

• Cardiovascular conditions
• Hypotension
• Glaucoma
• Bleeding problems
• Recent heart attack or stroke

Drug Interactions

Cyclandelate may interact with several medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, antihypertensives, and other phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Check for drug interactions with your physician.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Cyclandelate’s safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been well-established. Its use should be avoided or only considered if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and under strict medical supervision.

Drug Profile Summary

Refer to the information provided above. Given the discontinuation of this medication in many places and limited efficacy data, a summarized drug profile is not suitable here.

Popular Combinations

No specific drug combination information is available for cyclandelate.

Precautions

Refer to the information provided above.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Cyclandelate?

A: Dosage recommendations are not provided given the discontinuation of this drug and lack of clinical evidence. Consult local guidelines where the medicine might still be available.

Q2: How does Cyclandelate work?

A: Cyclandelate is a direct-acting vasodilator that relaxes the smooth muscle of the blood vessel walls, leading to improved blood flow.

Q3: Is Cyclandelate safe to use during pregnancy?

A: Cyclandelate’s safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been definitively established. Its use should be avoided or only considered if benefits outweigh risks, under strict medical supervision.

Q4: What are the common side effects of Cyclandelate?

A: Common side effects can include gastrointestinal issues, flushing, sweating, tingling, weakness, dizziness, and headache.

Q5: What are the contraindications for Cyclandelate?

A: Contraindications include hypersensitivity, acute stroke, and severe coronary artery disease.

Q6: Does Cyclandelate interact with other medications?

A: Yes, potential interactions exist with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and antihypertensives, among others. Consult your physician for detailed interaction information.

Q7: What should I do if I miss a dose of Cyclandelate?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the next dose. Don’t double the dose. This information should not be considered medical advice since the drug is discontinued.

Q8: Is Cyclandelate still available?

A: Cyclandelate is no longer distributed by the original manufacturer in the US and many other regions. Its availability elsewhere should be confirmed locally.

Q9: What are the long-term effects of Cyclandelate?

A: Limited data on long-term effects is available.

Q10: Who should exercise caution when considering Cyclandelate?

A: Patients with cardiovascular conditions, hypotension, glaucoma, bleeding problems, or a history of heart attack or stroke should exercise caution when considering Cyclandelate. However, since the drug is largely discontinued, this is not a practical concern.