Flunarizine
Generic Details
Generic Name
Flunarizine
Other Names
- Flunarizine dihydrochloride
Drug Class
- Calcium channel blocker
Chemical Formula
C26H28Cl2N2
Molecular Weight
475.41 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks calcium channels, primarily in cerebral vascular smooth muscle and in digests the contractile mechanisms of serotonin-activated platelets.
Indications
- Prophylaxis of migraine
- Prophylaxis of vertigo and vestibular disorders
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
Typical Dosage
- 10 mg once daily at bedtime, increase to 20 mg daily if necessary
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric Dosage
- Adjust dosage cautiously due to the increased risk of adverse effects
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to flunarizine
- Depression
- Parkinson's disease
- Extrapyramidal disorders
Pregnancy Category
- Not recommended during pregnancy
Lactation Safety
- Not recommended during lactation
Drug Interactions
- Avoid concomitant use with other CNS depressants
- May enhance the effects of alcohol
Overdose Symptoms
- Dizziness
- Hypotension
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
Antidote for Overdose
- There is no specific antidote, manage symptoms supportively
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted in the urine and feces
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment
- Monitor for signs of depression or extrapyramidal symptoms
Warnings
- May cause drowsiness, caution when driving or operating machinery