Nimodipine oral solution

What is this medicine?

NIMODIPINE (nye MOE di peen) is a calcium-channel blocker. This medicine is used to treat subarachnoid hemorrhage. This is a condition in which there is bleeding into the space around the brain that causes severe headaches and a stiff neck.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use the provided measuring cup or oral syringe to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. Do not take with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• difficulty breathing

• dizziness or drowsiness

• irregular or fast heartbeats (palpitations)

• lightheadedness or fainting

• slow heartbeat

• swelling of the legs or ankles

• unusual bleeding or bruising, red spots on skin

• unusually weak or tired

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

• flushing

• headache

• nausea

• sweating

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• amiodarone

• birth control pills

• certain antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, and, telithromycin

• certain medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

• certain medicines for fungal infections like fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole

• certain medicines for hepatitis C infection like boceprevir and telaprevir

• certain medicines for HIV like amprenavir, atazanavir, delavirdine, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and saquinavir

• certain medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and valproic acid

• cimetidine

• conivaptan

• grapefruit juice

• medicines for high blood pressure

• rifampin

• St. John's Wort

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.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not refrigerate. Protect from light.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to nimodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.

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