Flunarizine

Description

Flunarizine is a medicine used to help prevent migraine headaches. It works by

blocking certain calcium channels in the brain, which helps reduce the overactivity of blood vessels and nerves that can trigger migraines. By calming this activity, it helps lower the frequency and severity of migraine attacks over time. This medicine is usually taken once daily, often at night, as it can cause drowsiness in some people. It may take a few weeks to show full benefit, so it’s important to continue taking it regularly as advised by your doctor. If you notice side effects such as unusual tiredness, mood changes, or swelling in your legs, inform your doctor so your treatment can be adjusted if needed.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Prophylaxis of migraine
Occlusive peripheral vascular disease
Vertigo of central and peripheral origin
Adjuvant in the therapy of epilepsy
Treatment of dizziness

Contraindications

When should one not use Flunarizine

Depression
In the acute phase of stroke
In patients with extrapyramidal symptoms or Parkinson’s disease
Low blood pressure
Heart failure
Irregular heartbeats

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Drowsiness
Weight gain
Nausea
Heartburn
Dry mouth
Depression
Decrease in sleep
Increase in appetite

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Flunarizine during pregnancy?

There are no adequate studies or data available about the usage of this medicine during pregnancy; hence, this medicine is not recommended during pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Flunarizine while breastfeeding?

This medicine is not recommended during breastfeeding as there are no adequate studies or data available about the usage of this medicine during breastfeeding.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Flunarizine?

Alcohol and Flunarizine can increase drowsiness. Hence, alcohol should be avoided.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have depression
You are taking any medicines that cause drowsiness
You have any heart-related problems
You have low blood pressure

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Flunarizine blocks certain types of voltage-gated calcium channels, thereby prevents the entry of calcium; this inhibits the contractions of vascular smooth muscle cells. Collectively, it increases bl...
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It also has Histamine H1 blocking activity

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

This medicine has interactions with anticonvulsants and tranquilizers.

Interactions with food items

Using alcohol with this medicine may cause interactions
Consumption of alcohol while taking this medicine should be avoided

Dosage

Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include confusion, unusual drowsiness and rapid pulse. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Missed a Dose

Take medicine as soon as you remember the missed dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the regular dosage schedule. Do not take extra medicine to compensat...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking this medicine?

A: You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it. You must give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. Also, discuss with your doctor all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations and nutritional supplements that you may be taking before starting this medication.

References

Last Updated on: 20 Nov 2025 | 10:44 PM (IST)

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