Fluver

Indications

Flunarizine is used to prevent migraine attacks in people who have frequent or severe migraines when other treatments have not worked or are not suitable. It is also used for dizziness and vertigo (a spinning feeling) caused by problems of the balance organ in the inner ear. It does not stop a migraine attack that has already started.

How It Works

Flunarizine is a calcium channel blocker. It limits the flow of calcium into nerve and blood vessel cells, which helps protect brain cells, steadies blood vessels in the head and calms the balance system of the inner ear.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults under 65 years: usually 10 mg once a day at night.
• Adults over 65 years: usually 5 mg once a day at night.
• If drowsiness or other side effects are troublesome, the doctor may lower the dose to 5 mg.
• For migraine, the doctor usually reviews the benefit after about 2 months. For long-term use, the doctor may advise a few days off each week or a break every few months.
• Children: only as prescribed.

Swallow the tablet with water, with or without food.

Interactions

Alcohol, sleeping tablets, sedatives and some antihistamines can increase drowsiness. Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and Phenobarbital can lower the level of Flunarizine in the body. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, especially medicines for mental health or Parkinson's disease.

Contraindications

• Allergy to flunarizine or any ingredient of the product.
• Current or past depression.
• Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders such as tremor or muscle stiffness.

Side Effects

Common: drowsiness, tiredness, increased appetite and weight gain. Less common: heartburn, nausea, dry mouth, sleep problems, low mood and muscle aches. With long-term use, especially in older people, it can cause depression or movement problems such as shaking, stiffness, slow movements or restlessness.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), severe low mood or thoughts of harming yourself, or new uncontrolled movements.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Not recommended during pregnancy unless a doctor decides it is clearly needed. It passes into breast milk, so it should not be used while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

It can cause drowsiness, so do not drive or use machines until you know how it affects you. Stop taking it and see your doctor if you notice low mood, shaking, stiffness or slow movements. Older people and people with liver problems need extra care. Do not take more than the prescribed dose, as a higher dose does not work better.

Overdose

Too much can cause heavy drowsiness, restlessness and a fast heartbeat. Seek medical help straight away.

Therapeutic Class

Calcium channel blocker (used for migraine prevention and vertigo).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.