nimodipine Health Article

How should I take nimodipine?

Take nimodipine exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Nimodipine gel capsules are to be taken by mouth only. The medicine in the capsule should never be placed into a needle and syringe and injected into a vein. If the person taking nimodipine cannot swallow the capsule, use a needle to make a hole in each end of the capsule, and squeeze the medicine out into an oral syringe. The syringe can then be used to give the medicine through a nasogastric (through the nose and into the stomach) tube.

If you are able to swallow capsules, take nimodipine on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals. Take each dose with a full glass of water.

It is important to take nimodipine regularly to get the most benefit.

Do not stop taking nimodipine without first talking to your doctor, even if you begin to feel better. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood pressure will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store nimodipine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a nimodipine overdose may include dizziness, weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, an unusually fast or slow heartbeat, slurred speech, confusion, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking nimodipine?

Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking nimodipine. Alcohol and nimodipine may cause low blood pressure, drowsiness, or dizziness.

What are the possible side effects of nimodipine?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using nimodipine and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• unusually fast or slow heartbeats;

• fainting or severe dizziness;

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• swelling in your legs or ankles.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely. Continue taking nimodipine and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

• mild dizziness;

• flushing (redness, warmth, or tingling feeling);

• headache;

• nausea, constipation; or

• sweating.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect nimodipine?

There may be other drugs that can affect nimodipine, resulting in side effects and/or reduced effectiveness. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about nimodipine written for health professionals that you may read.