Archive for the ‘Blood Pressure’ Category
A class II calcium antagonist that relaxes the cerebral arteries, which supply blood to the brain. It is used to prevent spasm of these arteries following a subarachnoid haemorrhage (bleeding into the
spaces around the brain caused by a rupture of one of the cerebral arteries), and thus prevents further interruption of the blood supply to the brain. Nimodipine is available, as tablets or a solution for infusion, on
prescription only.
Side effects: include low blood pressure, flushing, headache, and gastrointestinal upset (including nausea).
Precautions: nimodipine should be used with caution in patients with swelling of the brain, raised pressure within the brain, or poor kidney function.
Proprietary preparation: Nimotop.
