Flunarizine: Drug Effects, Side Effects, Dosage and Uses

Products

Flunarizine is commercially available in tablet form (Sibelium). It has been approved in many countries since 1979.

Structure and properties

Flunarizine (C₂₆H₂₆F₂N₂, M_r = 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:

Central nervous disorders, depression
Stomach pain, heartburn, nausea.
Extrapyramidal symptoms, mainly in the elderly.