Nimodipine
Molecule Description
Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocking agent which is used to decrease proble
ms caused due to a specific type of bleeding in the brain.
Uses of Nimodipine
To prevent damage caused due to lack of blood flow to the brain.
Contraindications of Nimodipine
When should one not use Nimodipine
- If you are getting Nimodipine solution through a drip
- If you are taking Rifampicin (an antibiotic), Phenobarbital, Phenytoin or Carbamazepine
- Allergic to this medicine
- History of recent heart attack
Side effects of Nimodipine
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Low blood pressure
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Difficulty in breathing
- Irregular heartbeat or pulse
- Lightheadedness
- Sweating
- Swelling
- Rashes
- Stomach problems
- Vision problems
Precautions and Warnings of Nimodipine
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Nimodipine during pregnancy?
A:
This medicine is considered unsafe during pregnancy. Inform your doctor about your pregnancy if this medicine has been prescribed or if you are planning to conceive.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Nimodipine while breastfeeding?
A:
It is better to avoid this medicine while breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Nimodipine?
A:
If you experience problems with your body balance and orientation after taking this medicine, then avoid driving.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Nimodipine?
A:
Avoid consumption of alcohol while on this medicine as it may lower your blood pressure.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have suffered any head injury
- You are taking any antibiotics
- You have liver disease or low blood pressure
Mode of Action of Nimodipine
How Does It Work?
Our body naturally responds to bleeding by narrowing the blood vessels to slow blood flow. However, when the bleeding is in the brain, reduction in blood flow causes more damage to the brain. Nimodipine is said to work by relaxing narrowed blood vessels in the brain near the area of bleeding so that blood can flow more easily. This mechanism reduces brain damage....
Interactions of Nimodipine
Interactions with other medicines
- Medicine for high blood pressure such as Propranolol and Metoprolol, Benazepril and Enalapril, Diltiazem, Verapamil, etc.
- Antibiotics (e.g. Clarithromycin, Telithromycin), Rifampicin
- Some HIV medications (e.g. Delavirdine, Indinavir, Nelfinavir, Ritonavir, Saquinavir)
- Some antifungal medicine (e.g. Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Voriconazole)
- Some antidepressants (e.g. Nefazodone)
- Some antiepileptic medicines (Sodium Valproate)
Interactions with food items
Never consume Nimodipine with grapefruit juice as it can increase the chances of side effects with this medicine.
Dietary Restrictions of Nimodipine
Do not consume grapefruit or it’s juice when you are on this medication.
Dosage of Nimodipine
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include disturbed orientation and balance of body, low blood pressure, chest pain, an unusually fast or slow heartbeat, slurred speech, coma. Seek emergency medical help if you think you have taken exceeded dose of this medicine....
Missed a Dose
Take the missed dose of medicine as soon as you remember. If it is nearly the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next scheduled hour. Do not take an extra dose of medicine to compensate for the missed dose....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ravi Kakarla
MBBS, MBA
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Nimodipine?
- Some medical conditions may interfere with Nimodipine
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation or dietary supplement
- If you have any allergies to medicines, food or other substances
- If you have any liver problems, heart problems (e.g. slow heartbeat), low blood pressure or fluid in your lungs, or if you have a recent history of a heart attack
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