Flunarizine


Generic Medicine Info
Indications and Dosage
Oral
Peripheral vascular disease, Prophylaxis of migraine
Adult: 5-10 mg daily in the evening.
Administration
May be taken with or without food.
Contraindications
History of depression, pre-existing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, other extrapyramidal disorders.
Special Precautions
Not indicated for acute migraine attacks. Hepatic impairment. Elderly
Adverse Reactions
Significant: Depression, extrapyramidal symptoms; mild increase in serum prolactin levels and menstrual irregularities. Rarely, galactorrhoea.
Gastrointestinal disorders: Dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain.
Investigations: Weight gain.
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Increased appetite.
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Myalgia.
Nervous system disorders: Drowsiness, dizziness.
Psychiatric disorders: Insomnia.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Rash.
Patient Counseling Information
This drug may cause CNS depression, if affected, do not drive or operate machinery.
Monitoring Parameters
Monitor for signs and symptoms of depression, and extrapyramidal symptoms.
Drug Interactions
Increased risk of excessive sedation with CNS depressants. May increase therapeutic effects of antihypertensive drugs. May increase the risk of galactorrhoea with oral contraceptives.
Food Interaction
Increased risk of excessive sedation with alcohol.
Action
Description:
Mechanism of Action: Flunarizine is a difluorinated derivative of cinnarizine. It is a selective Ca channel blocker that decreases excessive transmembrane Ca influx thus preventing cellular Ca overload. It also has antihistamine, and sedative properties.
Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Time to peak plasma concentration: 2-4 hours.
Distribution: Volume of distribution: 43.2 L/kg. Plasma protein binding: >90%.
Metabolism: Extensively metabolised in the liver via N-oxidation and aromatic hydroxylation.
Excretion: Via faeces (<6% at 48 hours); urine (minimal). Elimination half-life: Approx 18 days.
Chemical Structure

Chemical Structure Image
Flunarizine_01

Source: National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 941361, Flunarizine. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/941361. Accessed Aug. 26, 2022.

Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture.
MIMS Class
Antimigraine Preparations
ATC Classification
N07CA03 - flunarizine ; Belongs to the class of antivertigo preparations.
References
Anon. Flunarizine. Lexicomp Online. Hudson, Ohio. Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. https://online.lexi.com. Accessed 04/08/2022.

Buckingham R (ed). Flunarizine Hydrochloride. Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference [online]. London. Pharmaceutical Press. https://www.medicinescomplete.com. Accessed 04/08/2022.

Fludan Capsules (Medispec [M] Sdn Bhd). National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency - Ministry of Health Malaysia. https://www.npra.gov.my. Accessed 04/08/2022.

Flumig 5 mg Capsule (Justright Pharmaceuticals). MIMS Philippines. http://www.mims.com/philippines. Accessed 04/08/2022.

Forknow Tablet (Y.S.P. Industries [M] Sdn Bhd). National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency - Ministry of Health Malaysia. https://www.npra.gov.my. Accessed 04/08/2022.

Vanid (Unison Laboratories Co Ltd [HK]). MIMS Hong Kong. http://www.mims.com/hongkong. Accessed 04/08/2022.

Disclaimer: This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Flunarizine from various references and is provided for your reference only. Therapeutic uses, prescribing information and product availability may vary between countries. Please refer to MIMS Product Monographs for specific and locally approved prescribing information. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, MIMS shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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