Nimotop Consumer Information

Nimotop

Generic Name: nimodipine (nih MO dih peen)
Brand Names: Nimotop

What is Nimotop (nimodipine)?

Nimodipine is in a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Nimodipine relaxes (widens) blood vessels and improves blood flow.

Nimodipine is used to prevent brain damage caused by reduced blood flow to the brain resulting from aneurysm (AN-yor-iz-m), a dilated or ruptured blood vessel in the brain.

Nimodipine may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What is the most important information I should know about Nimotop (nimodipine)?

Before taking nimodipine, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, low blood pressure, high blood pressure (hypertension) for which you take medicine, or a history of heart problems such as a slow heart rate, congestive heart failure, or heart attack.

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.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Nimotop (nimodipine)?

Before taking nimodipine, tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease;

• low blood pressure;

• high blood pressure for which you take medication; or

• a history of heart problems such as a slow heart rate, congestive heart failure, or heart attack.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use nimodipine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

How should I take Nimotop (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.

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

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.

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?

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 Nimotop (nimodipine)?

Nimotop (nimodipine) 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 Nimotop (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.