NIMODIPINE
Background and Date of Approval
Nimodipine belongs to the class of medications called calcium channel blockers. FDA approved this medicine initially in 1998.
Uses
It is used to decrease brain damage caused by a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the space surrounding the brain that occurs when a weakened blood vessel in the brain bursts). It works by relaxing blood vessels in the brain.
How is it administered?
Your physician or other healthcare professionals will give this injection to you. This injection will be given as a slow injection intravenously (into a vein). Your doctor will decide the dose and frequency of the medicine based on your disease condition, body weight, and other factors. Do not self-administer the medicine.
Side Effects
The common side effects of nimodipine are decreased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, nausea, and headache. Other serious side effects of this medicine are severe allergic reactions, bruising, and bleeding.
Warnings
Do not take nimodipine if you are allergic to nimodipine or any of the other ingredients of this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you have or had a heart attack within the last month before starting the treatment. Do not take this injection if you are suffering from angina and notice increased frequency and severity of attacks. Inform your physician if you have had a head injury recently.
Precautions
Tell your physician if you have fluid in the brain or severely raised pressure in your skull, have low blood pressure, have liver disease, have kidney problems, are alcoholic, and are on a controlled salt (sodium) diet. Nimodipine is not indicated for children under the age of 18. Inform your physician if you face any allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, rash, itching, nausea, or vomiting after receiving this medicine.
Word of Advice
Store below 25°C. Store in the original package to protect from light. keep the injection away from the reach of children and pets. Do not start the treatment with nimodipine within 4 days of drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit. Do not drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit while being treated with nimodipine. This medicine can sometimes affect male fertility. Inform your physician if you and your partner are trying to get pregnant during the treatment. Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
References
Bayer, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jun 2020] [Accessed on 15th June 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1366.pdf Arbor Pharmaceuticals, US Food, and Drug Administration, [Revised on 18th April 2013] [Accessed on 15th June 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/203340lbl.pdf Bertram G. Katzung, Vasodilators & the Treatment of Angina Pectoris, Langeâs Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 194-211. P. Langhorne, Stroke disease, Davidsonâs Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 1231-1247.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nimodipine used for?
Nimodipine is primarily used to treat vasospasm, a condition where blood vessels in the brain constrict or narrow following a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the space surrounding the brain)
Can Nimodipine cause dizziness or lightheadedness?
Dizziness and lightheadedness are potential side effects of Nimodipine, especially at the beginning of treatment or when changing the dosage. It is important to be cautious when performing activities that require alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.
Can Nimodipine be stopped abruptly?
Nimodipine should not be stopped abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Nimodipine?
It is generally advised to avoid alcohol while taking Nimodipine, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure.
What are the serious allergic reactions that may occur after taking Nimodipine?
Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, rash, itching, nausea or vomiting can occur after receiving Nimodipine. Inform your physician immediately.