The Effects of Pentoxifylline on PAI-1 in an Obese Population

The Effects of Pentoxifylline on PAI-1 in an Obese Population

PAI-1 is elevated in obese individuals. TNF-alpha, an inflammatory mediator is believed to play a role in obesity mediated elevations in PAI-1 levels. TNF-alpha blockade with antibodies and the drug pentoxifylline have been shown to lower PAI-1 levels in animal models. This study tests the hypothesis that pentoxifylline will lower PAI-1 levels in human subjects.

Obese individuals with elevated PAI-1 levels (greater than 10 ng/ml) are randomized to pentoxifylline 400mg, three times a day (TID) or placebo for 8 weeks. PAI-1, TNF-a and high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein are measured at week 0, 4 and 8.

Inclusions: 1. A Body Mass Index of ≥ 30.0 2. Age 21 or older 3. Few or no medical problems 4. PAI-1 level ≥ 10 ng/dl

Exclusions: 1. Cigarette use 2. Present use of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors 3. Recent cerebral and/or retinal hemorrhage 4. Intolerance to pentoxifylline or methylxanthines such as caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine 5. Presently on warfarin therapy 6. Pregnancy or breast-feeding 7. Recent surgery 8. Recent diagnosis/treatment for peptic ulcer