Nimodipine: What It Is and How It's Used

Nimodipine is a medicine doctors use mainly to lower the risk of brain blood vessel spasms after a bleed around the brain (subarachnoid hemorrhage). It belongs to a group called calcium channel blockers. Unlike many other blood pressure pills, nimodipine is chosen because it helps blood flow in the brain.

This drug comes as capsules and an oral solution. Doctors usually start nimodipine in the hospital after a confirmed bleed, and treatment often continues for about three weeks. The usual adult dose is 60 mg every four hours. Take it on an empty stomach — at least one hour before or two hours after a meal — because food can reduce how much gets into your body.

Dosing, monitoring and practical tips

Take nimodipine exactly as your doctor tells you. Do not crush or chew extended formulations unless your pharmacist says it's safe. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up. While on nimodipine, your care team will watch your blood pressure and heart rate. Low blood pressure is the main problem to watch for. If you feel dizzy, very tired, or faint, call your provider.

If you have liver disease, the dose may be lower. Older adults can be more sensitive to blood pressure drops, so expect closer monitoring. Nimodipine is not for use in children unless a specialist recommends it.

Side effects, interactions and safety

Common side effects include low blood pressure, headache, nausea, flushing, and swelling in the legs. Most side effects are mild, but severe dizziness, fainting, or very low blood pressure need urgent care.

Nimodipine interacts with other drugs that change liver enzymes. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 — like ketoconazole, some HIV drugs, and certain antibiotics — can raise nimodipine levels and increase side effects. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can also raise levels and should be avoided. Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take.

Nimodipine should never be given by injection or into veins. That can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.

Buying nimodipine and next steps

Nimodipine is prescription-only in most countries. Avoid buying from sites that don't require a prescription or that look suspicious. Use licensed pharmacies and talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about how to take it. If you or a loved one is started on nimodipine after a brain bleed, ask the doctor how long treatment will last, how they will monitor blood pressure, and what warning signs to watch for.

This page covers practical, clinically focused points about nimodipine. If you want detailed dosing for special cases, or a breakdown of studies on outcomes after subarachnoid hemorrhage, ask and I'll pull that together.

Quick tips: keep a blood pressure diary while on nimodipine, avoid driving if you feel dizzy, store the medicine at room temperature away from heat and moisture, and carry a current list of your medicines with you always.