Nimotop

Nimotop is a brand name for nimodipine, a calcium channel blocker of the dihydropyridine class used primarily to prevent complications after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Nimodipine is noted for its ability to cross the blood–brain barrier and is thought to produce a preferential vasodilatory effect on cerebral vessels, which helps reduce delayed cerebral ischemia following SAH.

Clinical use and administration

Nimodipine is indicated to reduce the risk of poor outcome caused by cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal SAH. Therapy is typically started within 96 hours of SAH onset and continued for about 21 days. It is administered orally in 60 mg doses every 4 hours, and available as capsules or an oral solution; if needed, administration via a nasogastric tube is possible. Intravenous use is not recommended in many settings due to the risk of severe hypotension.

Contraindications, cautions, and interactions

Nimodipine can cause systemic hypotension and should be used with caution in patients with low blood pressure, heart failure, or significant hepatic impairment. It is contraindicated in allergy to nimodipine. Because nimodipine is metabolized by CYP3A4, strong inhibitors or inducers of this enzyme can alter drug levels, and concomitant antihypertensive therapies may increase the risk of hypotension.

Adverse effects and safety

Common adverse effects include hypotension, headache, flushing, nausea, and dizziness. Edema and liver-related toxicity are less common but monitored. Proper dosing, monitoring of blood pressure, and avoidance of IV administration are standard safety considerations.

Availability

Nimotop was developed by Bayer and remains a widely recognized brand for nimodipine; generic nimodipine is available in many markets.