Price: 1.07 per
Contents
Common use
Nimotop, also known by its generic name nimodipine, belongs to a group of medicines called calcium channel blockers. It is specifically formulated to prevent or limit neurological damage caused by cerebral vasospasm following a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) - a serious and life-threatening form of brain bleeding.
Unlike other calcium channel blockers used for blood pressure control or heart conditions, Nimotop's action is targeted exclusively at improving cerebral circulation, thereby reducing the risk of further brain injury after hemorrhage.
Dosage and direction
The standard therapeutic regimen for Nimotop is 60 mg administered orally every four hours, typically over a 21-day treatment period. This course should be initiated within 4 days of the hemorrhagic event.
Capsules should be taken on an empty stomach - either one hour before or two hours after eating - with a full glass of water. Do not chew, break, or crush the capsule.
In clinical settings, patients unable to swallow may receive the medication via nasogastric or feeding tubes under medical supervision using a liquid formulation.
Precautions
Prior to beginning treatment with Nimotop, inform your doctor of any existing health issues, including:
Chronic liver disease
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Syncope or frequent fainting
Known allergy to calcium channel blockers
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be strictly avoided during therapy, as they may increase blood levels of nimodipine, elevating the risk of side effects such as hypotension or arrhythmia.
Contraindications
Do not use Nimotop if you:
Are hypersensitive to nimodipine or any similar medication
Have dangerously low blood pressure
Are currently using potent CYP3A4 enzyme inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin)
Its safety during pregnancy is not fully established. Use should be limited to cases where the potential benefit outweighs the risk, under a doctor's careful supervision.
Possible side effects
Common adverse effects reported by patients include:
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
Head pain
Slower than normal heart rate
Mild nausea
Severe but uncommon side effects may include:
Loss of consciousness or fainting
Edema in limbs (swelling)
Irregular heart rhythms
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), indicating liver concerns
You should notify your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or worsening symptoms during treatment.
Drug interactions
Nimotop should not be taken alongside the following substances, as interactions may be harmful:
Grapefruit products
Enzyme inhibitors such as ritonavir, erythromycin, or ketoconazole
Anticonvulsants including phenytoin and carbamazepine
Intravenous drugs administered concurrently (can cause sudden severe hypotension)
Inform your doctor of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Never double up to compensate for a forgotten dose.
Overdose
Taking more than the recommended amount of Nimotop can result in dangerously low blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, loss of consciousness, or severe confusion. Immediate emergency attention is essential if an overdose is suspected.
Storage
Keep Nimotop stored at room temperature, preferably between 68°F and 77°F (20°C - 25°C). Protect from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Ensure the medication is out of reach of children and pets.
U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy
In the United States, Nimotop is designated as a prescription-only medication, approved by the FDA for reducing neurological damage after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Because of its narrow indications and potential cardiovascular risks, it is usually prescribed and administered under close medical supervision, particularly in hospital settings.
Although it is generally unavailable for direct over-the-counter sale, Home Care Pharmacy offers a legally compliant pathway to obtain Nimotop without a traditional prescription, where permitted by state law and based on pharmacist-led screening protocols.
This makes it easier for qualifying patients to access essential care in a timely and secure manner, especially in regions with expanded pharmacist prescribing authority.
Disclaimer
The information above is intended for general educational purposes only. It should not replace consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Always follow your doctor's advice when using any prescription medication.