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Peripheral Arterial Disease of the Legs - Medications

Medicines are sometimes used to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Cholesterol-lowering medicines may slow atherosclerosis , the main cause of PAD. You may need additional medicines if you have high blood pressure or diabetes. Both of these conditions can speed up the development of PAD.

Medicines to control pain may also be used when treating PAD. In very rare cases, doctors use anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin, for example), to help prevent blood clots.

Medication Choices

Medicines that may be used to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD) include:

Cilostazol (Pletal) to treat leg pain that comes on with activity (intermittent claudication). This medicine may cause serious side effects.
Aspirin and other antiplatelet medicines, which may help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Statins, to lower cholesterol levels. Lowering cholesterol levels may help relieve symptoms and prevent the progression of PAD. For more information on cholesterol-lowering drugs, see the topic High Cholesterol.
Medicines to control high blood pressure. For more information on drug treatment for high blood pressure, see the topic High Blood Pressure (Hypertension).
Drugs to help you stop smoking, such as:
Anticoagulants. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin, are not generally used to treat PAD unless you have a higher chance of forming blood clots.
Medicines to control diabetes.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 16, 2009

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.