Nimodipine Capsules

What is this medication?

NIMODIPINE (nye MOE di peen) treats symptoms caused by injury to blood vessels in the brain. It works by increasing the blood flow to injured brain tissue. It belongs to a group of medications called calcium channel blockers.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Nimotop

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Liver disease
• An unusual or allergic reaction to nimodipine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take this medication at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed. Continue to take your medication even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose, Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may interact with the following:

• Amiodarone
• Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, and telithromycin
• Certain medications for depression, anxiety, or mental health conditions
• Certain medications for fungal infections, such as fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole
• Certain medications for hepatitis C infection, such as boceprevir and telaprevir
• Certain medications for HIV, such as amprenavir, atazanavir, delavirdine, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and saquinavir
• Certain medications for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and valproic acid
• Cimetidine
• Conivaptan
• Estrogen or progestin hormones
• Grapefruit juice
• Medications for high blood pressure
• Rifampin
• St. John's Wort

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress.

Alcohol can increase the chance of getting low blood pressure. Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Heart attack—pain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, shortness of breath, cold or clammy skin, feeling faint or lightheaded
• Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
• Worsening chest pain (angina)—pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, neck, back, or arms

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Nausea
• Skin rash
• Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep foil packaged capsules in their original foil until needed. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.