Products
Flunarizine is commercially available in tablet form (Sibelium). It has been approved in many countries since 1979.
Structure and properties
Flunarizine (C26H26F2N2, Mr = 404.49 g/mol) is present in drugs as flunarizine dihydrochloride, a white powder that is sparingly soluble in water.
Effects
Flunarizine (ATC N07CA03) has antivertiginous and depressant properties. It is a type IV calcium channel blocker.
Indications
- Migraine prophylaxis
- Vestibular vertigo
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Depression
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
- Parkinsonism
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Centrally depressant medications, such as sleeping pills or sedatives, and alcohol may increase adverse effects.
Adverse effects
Very common:
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Increase in appetite and weight gain
Occasional: