What Is Nimodipine?

Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker originally developed for high blood pressure that is also effective in the prevention of complications from subarachnoid hemorrhage, a type of brain bleed. This medication is usually given in a clinical setting to a patient receiving acute care, and medical personnel will supervise patients while on nimodipine. Before taking this medication, it is important to discuss medical history with a doctor, including all current prescriptions, because they can interact adversely and may cause complications.

This medication can be given in the form of tablets to patients who can swallow, or a nasogastric tube in others. It is not suitable for intravenous use, and a doctor will calculate the dose on the basis of the patient's weight and health. In patients with subarachnoid hemorrhages, nimodipine can help prevent vasospasm, a potentially serious complication that can cause ischemia, where part of the brain is deprived of oxygen.

The drug tends to lower blood pressure, and may not be safe for use in patients who already have low blood pressure. It can also cause flushing, dizziness, and fatigue. Some patients may experience gastrointestinal distress while they take nimodipine. The drug can also interact with pain management medications, blood pressure drugs, and some food items, like grapefruit juice. In a hospital setting, the patient's chart should note that she is on nimodipine, and care providers will take this into account when they bring food or medication to the patient.

A doctor will decide on the appropriate duration of nimodipine therapy based on how well the patient responds to the medication and whether he recovers from the brain bleed. Other measures for treatment may also be available, and the patient will need periodic medical imaging studies to check on the condition of the bleed. Patients in the hospital for neurological care may also be subject to regular exams to check on brain function, and these can include having to wake up in the middle of the night for a test. While this can be inconvenient and disorienting, it is very important, as it will allow doctors to catch complications early.

The nimodipine will work its way out of the patient once she stops taking the drug. A person with a recent history of nimodipine therapy should mention it to a doctor if she receives a new prescription or dietary advice. The doctor can determine whether the new drug is safe for use, given the patient's medical history.