What is the mechanism of action of cilostazol in treating peripheral artery disease?

Cilostazol is primarily used in the treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD) due to its dual mechanism of action, which plays a vital role in improving symptoms associated with this condition. It functions as both a vasodilator, which helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow to the limbs. This increased blood flow is crucial for patients with PAD, as it can alleviate claudication pain during exertion.

Additionally, cilostazol acts as an ADP inhibitor, which means it helps to prevent platelet aggregation. By inhibiting the action of adenosine diphosphate (ADP), cilostazol reduces the formation of blood clots, further enhancing blood circulation in the peripheral arteries. The combination of these mechanisms—vasodilation and inhibition of platelet aggregation—makes cilostazol particularly effective in managing the symptoms of peripheral artery disease, improving patients' ability to walk longer distances without pain.

The other potential answers do not accurately reflect cilostazol's action. It is not an anticoagulant or a thrombolytic agent, as these medications have different purposes, primarily involving the prevention or dissolution of blood clots rather than improving blood flow through vasodilation. Cilostazol is also not a beta