GENERIC NAME: NIMODIPINE - ORAL (nim-OH-duh-peen)

BRAND NAME(S): Nimotop

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication is used to improve symptoms caused by spasms as a result of a brain hemorrhage (ruptured blood vessels).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. If the capsules can not be swallowed, the liquid inside the capsule may be taken out and given through a feeding tube. For best results, this medication must be started within 4 days of the brain hemorrhage and given every 4 hours for 3 weeks.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, headache, slowed pulse or flushing may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: depression, mood changes, skin rash, swelling hands or feet, shortness of breath, wheezing, muscle cramps, unusual bruising or bleeding. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: heart problems, lung disease, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, especially of: blood pressure drugs, intravenous (IV) calcium, heart drugs. Avoid any drugs that increase your heart-rate (the decongestants phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine are examples). These drugs are commonly found in over-the-counter cough-and-cold products. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.