Flunarizine
MIGRAINE DRUGSUses of Flunarizine
- Flunarizine is primarily used to prevent and treat migraines, particularly those with severe neurological symptoms like aura or one-sided weakness, often accompanied by dizziness or vertigo.
- It is also effective in managing vestibular disorders such as vertigo and dizziness.
- Additionally, flunarizine may be prescribed as an adjunctive treatment for epilepsy in patients who do not respond adequately to other medications and can improve symptoms of cerebral insufficiency.
- It is also used off-label for preventing and treating motion sickness.
Side effects of Flunarizine
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Tinnitus (noise in ears)
- Increased weight
- Increased appetite
- Blocked or runny nose
- Feeling low
- Problems with sleeping or feeling sleepy
- Feeling sick
- Constipation
- Stomach ache or other digestive problems
- Muscle aches
- Pain in the breasts
- Menstrual problems such as irregular periods
- Feeling tired
How Flunarizine works
- Flunarizine is a class IV calcium antagonist. It works by blocking calcium channels in the brain, which helps to stabilise blood vessel function and reduce abnormal electrical activity in the nerves.
- By inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cells, it prevents excessive contraction and dilation of blood vessels, which is often associated with migraines and vestibular disorders.
- Additionally, this calcium channel blocking action can help to modulate neurotransmitter release, contributing to its effectiveness in managing epilepsy and improving symptoms of cerebral insufficiency.
Certified content
Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Flunarizine can be taken orally (tablet).
Age and Dose Restrictions
- It is intended to be used by adults only. It is not intended to be used in children.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Flunarizine. It is also contraindicated in patients having depression, Parkinson’s disease, lactose intolerance, or liver damage.
Other Medications To Avoid With This Medicine
- Avoid taking anxiety medications (citalopram), oral contraceptives (prednisone), and antihypertensives (amlodipine). These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of this medicine.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- Using Flunarizine might result in dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, or visual disturbances. It's essential to refrain from driving or operating machinery while taking it.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
- It is not recommended to be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in older adults and patients with existing depression, Parkinson’s disease, lactose intolerance, or liver damage.
Special Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendation
- Maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support overall well-being.
- Stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
- Get regular exercise, such as walking or yoga, to promote good blood circulation.
- Practice stress management techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, to reduce migraine triggers.
- Avoid known triggers like loud music, extreme temperatures, bright lights, and noisy environments that can worsen migraines.
- Prioritize getting enough sleep and establish a consistent sleep schedule for better migraine management.
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness when taking this medication.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Flunarizine in pregnancy?
No, this medicine is not recommended in pregnancy.
Can I take Flunarizine while breastfeeding?
No, this medicine is not recommended while breastfeeding.
What are the contraindications to be followed for using Flunarizine?
This medicine is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to this medicine, have depression, Parkinson’s disease, lactose intolerance, or liver damage.
Can Flunarizine interact with other medicines?
This medicine may interact with anxiety medications (citalopram), oral contraceptives (prednisone), and antihypertensives (amlodipine).
How should I take Flunarizine?
This medicine can be taken with or without food. The presence of food in the stomach will not affect the absorption process of the food.
What is the best time to take Flunarizine?
The best time to take this medicine is in the evening so that routine day-to-day activities are not affected by the side effects of this medicine.
Flunarizine in other salts
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