Dr. C P Ravi Kumar
Dr. C. P. Ravi Kumar Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Neurology, The Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Mahadevapura, Bangalore
What is flunarizine?
Flunarizine is a medicine mainly used to help prevent and treat headaches, like migraines and cluster headaches. It helps control blood flow in the brain, which can prevent or reduce migraines. It can also be used to treat vertigo (dizziness) and movement problems, like those caused by Parkinson’s disease or certain medications.
What are the various indications of flunarizine?
- Prevention of migraine
- Vertigo
- Vestibular disorders
Flunarizine is not meant for acute migraine attacks.
What are the paediatric uses of flunarizine?
- Prevention of migraine
- Vertigo
What are the available forms of flunarizine in India?
- Oral tablets
How does flunarizine works?
Flunarizine is a selective calcium channel blocker, that helps prevent cells from taking in too much calcium, and it also has antihistamine effects. It keeps blood vessels in the brain stable and blocks certain brain chemicals (like serotonin and glutamate) that can cause migraines.
What need to be discussed with my doctor before starting flunarizine?
- Let your doctor know about all the medicines you’re currently taking.
- Tell them if you have any allergies to medicines.
- Mention if you're already taking another medicine that contains flunarizine.
- Inform your doctor if you have depression or Parkinson’s disease, now or in the past.
When flunarizine should be consumed?
Take flunarizine once every evening at the same time to avoid drowsiness and see better results.
How flunarizine should be taken?
Take flunarizine with a glass of water after food at the same time each night before going to bed.
Your doctor may start flunarizine with low dose and may gradually increase as per the patient response.
Does flunarizine starts to work right away, or does it take time?
Flunarizine doesn’t give quick results — it takes time to work. If you take it regularly, it can slowly reduce how often and how bad your migraines are. Most people start feeling better in 2 to 4 weeks, but it might take up to 3 months to get the full benefit.
Can I drink alcohol while taking flunarizine, or will it cause problems?
Drinking alcohol may increase tiredness and drowsiness when taking flunarizine.
What steps should I take to stay safe while using flunarizine?
This medicine might make you feel tired or dizzy, so don’t drive or use machines until you know how it affects you.
- It can take a few weeks to work fully, so don’t stop taking it all of a sudden.
- Only take the amount your doctor tells you—taking too much can be dangerous.
Who should avoid taking flunarizine?
- Children, unless a doctor says it’s okay.
- Anyone allergic to flunarizine or its ingredients.
- Diagnosed with depression or a history of it
- Parkinson’s disease or a family history of it.
Can I stop taking flunarizine once I start feeling better?
Only stop flunarizine when your doctor tells you, as stopping suddenly can cause side effects.
What action should you take if you miss a dose?
In case of missing a dose, take it as soon as you remember—but if it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed one. Don’t take two doses at once! Set a reminder to help you remember, and if you miss more than one dose, talk to your doctor.
What are the side effects of flunarizine?
Every drug has their own side effects. But some may experience, and some do not have any side effects.
Taking flunarizine could result in certain side effects. Reach out to your doctor immediately if any of these symptoms are getting worsened and do not subside.
- 1. Drowsiness: feeling very sleepy or tired.
- 2. Anxiety: feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear
- 3. Insomnia: trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, even though you're tired.
- 4. Increased appetite: feeling hungry than usual and wanting to eat more food.
What are the signs that indicate you should go to the hospital immediately?
Some side effects, though rare, need immediate medical attention.These include:
- 1.Allergic skin reactions: like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
- 2. Xerostomia: when your mouth feels dry because you don't have enough saliva.
- 3. Myalgia: muscle pain
- 4. Weight gain: putting on body weight
- 4. Stomach upset: stomach feels uncomfortable, bloated, or you may feel nauseous
What medications should I avoid while taking flunarizine?
This medication should not be taken with any of the following:
- Medications for depression, anxiety, or mental health conditions
- Sedatives
- Anti-seizure medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Anti-histamines
Do not take any OTC/ herbal medications without informing to the doctor.
Is it safe to take flunarizine during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Flunarizine is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers because it might harm the baby. Always talk to your doctor before using it if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
How should flunarizine be stored?
Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly closed container, keep it away from children and moisture, and throw away any expired or unused tablets.
SUMMARY:
Flunarizine is a medicine mainly used to prevent migraines and treat vertigo. It works slowly over weeks, so regular use is important. Take it at night as prescribed, avoid alcohol, and never stop suddenly without your doctor’s advice. Report any unusual side effects, especially mood changes, skin rashes, or weight gain, to your doctor right away
REFERENCE:
Author:
- Dr. Likitha B S, Pharm. D, Clinical Pharmacologist, Aster Hospitals, Bengaluru
- Dr Praveen Kumar, B. Pharm, Pharm D(PB), Lead Clinical Pharmacologist, REGIONAL HEAD KIMS Hospitals, Bengaluru
- Dr. C. P. Ravi Kumar Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Neurology KIMS HOSPITALS BENGALURU