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Contents
Common use
Nimotop (nimodipine) is a calcium channel blocker used to reduce the risk of brain damage caused by vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) - a type of bleeding around the brain.
It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels in the brain, helping to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to affected areas.
Nimotop is not used for treating high blood presure or general heart problems - it is specific to brain-related circulation issues.
Dosage and direction
Nimotop is usually taken as 60 mg every 4 hours for 21 days, starting within 96 hours of the SAH event.
Take the capsules by mouth on an empty stomach or 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Swallow whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush.
If you are receiving this medication via tube (for example, nasogastric), special handling may be required by healthcare providers.
Precautions
Before using Nimotop, tell your doctor if you have:
Liver disease
Low blood pressure
History of fainting
Allergy to calcium channel blockers
Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medicine, as it can increase blood levels of nimodipine and lead to unwanted effects.
Contraindications
Do not use Nimotop if you:
Are allergic to nimodipine or similar medications
Have significant hypotension
Are using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole or clarithromycin
This medication is not for use during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Discuss the risks with your doctor.
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include:
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headache
Slow heartbeat
Nausea
Serious side effects (rare):
Fainting
Swelling of hands/ankles
Irregular heartbeat
Yellowing of skin or eyes (liver problems)
Tell your doctor if any side effects seem unusual or bothersome.
Drug interactions
Avoid taking Nimotop with:
Grapefruit products
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, erythromycin)
Antifungal meds (ketoconazole, itraconazole)
Antiseizure drugs like phenytoin or carbamazepine
Also, do not use Nimotop with intravenous medications due to serious risk of hypotension.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's near the time of your next dose, skip the missed one. Don't take double doses.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms include very low blood pressure, fast or slow heartbeat, fainting, and confusion. Get emergncy medical help if overdose is suspected.
Storage
Store at room temperature (68F-77F / 20C-25C), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy
Nimotop is a prescription-only medication in the United States and is FDA-approved specifically for reducing neurological damage after a subarachnoid hemorrhage.
It must be prescribed and supervised by a licensed healthcare provider, especially in hospital settings or during recovery from brain injury.
It is not available for over-the-counter purchase. Buying or using Nimotop without prescription in the U.S. is both unsafe and illegal.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for guidance regarding any medication.