Nimodipine

Administration

• Type: Calcium channel blocker, Dihydropyridine
• Dosage Forms: Capsules (30mg); Oral solution (60mg/20mL)
• Routes of Administration: PO, Enteral
• Common Trade Names: Nimotop, Nymalize

Adult Dosing

General

• Subarachnoid hemorrhage vasospasm prevention: 60mg PO/enteral q4h x 21 days
• If hypotension: Reduce to 30mg q4h

Pediatric Dosing

General

• Limited data; not routinely used in pediatrics

Special Populations

• Pregnancy Rating: C
• Lactation risk: Enters breast milk

Renal Dosing

• No specific adjustment

Hepatic Dosing

• Reduce dose in hepatic impairment

Contraindications

• Allergy to class/drug
• Do NOT administer IV (has caused fatal cardiovascular collapse)

Adverse Drug Reactions

Serious

• Hypotension
• Hepatotoxicity (rare)

Common

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

Pharmacology

• Onset of action: Within 1 hour
• Half-life: 8-9 hours
• Metabolism: Hepatic (CYP3A4)
• Excretion: Renal

Mechanism of Action

• Selectively blocks L-type calcium channels in cerebral vasculature
• Reduces cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage

See Also

• Subarachnoid hemorrhage
• Calcium channel blockers