Naftidrofuryl: a review of its use in the treatment of intermittent claudication

Abstract

Naftidrofuryl (Praxilene) is a vasodilator that has been used in the treatment of intermittent claudication for >30 years in Europe to improve walking distance and provide symptomatic relief. However, earlier trials had inconsistencies in design and the clinical relevance of the treatment effect has been controversial. Recent randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, however, have generally been conducted in accordance with updated methodology guidelines. In these studies, naftidrofuryl 200mg three times daily improved pain-free and maximal walking distances and health-related quality of life by a significantly greater extent than placebo in patients with intermittent claudication. The magnitude of these effects appears to support claims that the effects of naftidrofuryl are clinically relevant in these patients.