NIMOTOP (Nimodipine)

What is this medication?

Nimodipine, Nimotop/Nymalize
Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker

Nimodipine is indicated for treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage.

“ALERT: US Boxed Warning

Inadvertent intravenous administration:
Do not administer nimodipine intravenously (IV) or by other parenteral routes. Deaths and serious, life-threatening adverse reactions have occurred when the contents of nimodipine capsules have been injected parenterally.”

How does this medication work?

Nimodipine, Nimotop/Nymalize blocks calcium channels in smooth muscle of the blood vessels which relaxes them causing them to dilate which reduces vascular resistance thereby lowering blood pressure and increasing blood flow in areas such as the heart and limbs.  Animal studies indicate that nimodipine has a greater effect on cerebral arterials than other arterials; this increased specificity may be due to the drug’s increased lipophilicity and cerebral distribution as compared to nifedipine.

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: 60 mg every 4 hours for 21 consecutive days. Start therapy within 96 hours of the onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage

How to Take: Administer on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Tablet should be swallowed whole with an adequate amount of fluid (eg, glass of water). Do not crush tablet. Avoid alkaline mixtures for 2 hours before or after administration. Patient should not be lying down during administration

You Need to Avoid: Grapefruit can affect the enzyme that metabolizes this medication resulting in potentially high blood levels

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting Nimodipine, Nimotop/Nymalize make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have liver disease, aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication? 

Decreased blood pressure, bradycardia, headache

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only the most common ones.