Why is this medication prescribed?
Nimodipine is used to treat symptoms resulting from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain (hemorrhage). It increases blood flow to injured brain tissue.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How should this medicine be used?
Nimodipine comes as a capsule to take by mouth. If a patient cannot swallow the capsule, the medication can be given through a feeding tube. It is usually taken every 4 hours for 21 days. Nimodipine should be taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before a meal, or 2 hours after a meal. This medication should be started within 4 days of the brain hemorrhage.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take nimodipine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue to take nimodipine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking nimodipine without talking to your doctor.
Other uses for this medicine
Nimodipine is also used sometimes to treat migraine headaches. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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