Flunarizine: Uses, Doses, and What You Need to Know
Flunarizine can cut migraine days for many people, but it also carries real risks like parkinsonism and mood changes. It’s a selective calcium channel blocker with antihistamine and sedative effects. That mix explains why it can prevent headaches and calm vertigo yet make some people sleepy or slow to move.
Doctors most often prescribe flunarizine for migraine prevention when first‑line options didn’t work or caused bad side effects. Neurologists also use it for chronic dizziness linked to inner ear problems. The usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily, taken at bedtime to limit daytime drowsiness. If response is partial after 4–8 weeks, a doctor may raise the dose to 10 mg. Expect initial benefits within 2–4 weeks and clearer improvements over 2–3 months.
How it works and who should avoid it
Flunarizine blocks calcium entry in certain nerve cells and alters neurotransmitter activity, which reduces migraine triggers and calms vestibular pathways tied to balance. Avoid it if you have Parkinson’s disease, a history of drug‑induced movement disorders, or uncontrolled depression — flunarizine can cause parkinsonism and worsen mood. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use it unless advised by a specialist. Older adults may need lower doses due to higher sensitivity to sedation and balance problems.
Side effects, monitoring, and practical tips
Common side effects are drowsiness, weight gain, increased appetite, dry mouth, and constipation. More serious issues include extrapyramidal symptoms (tremor, stiffness, slow movements) and new or worsening depression. These can appear months after starting the drug, so regular checks matter. If you notice tremor, muscle stiffness, slowed walking, or persistent low mood, contact your prescriber quickly.
Practical safety tips: take flunarizine at night, avoid alcohol and other sedatives, weigh yourself every few weeks, and keep a short diary of headaches, sleepiness, mood, and any new movement symptoms. Don’t stop suddenly without medical advice; many clinicians recommend a gradual taper. Tell your provider about all other medicines and supplements — flunarizine can interact with CNS depressants and drugs that affect movement.
How long to try it? Most doctors give a clear trial of about three months. If migraine frequency or intensity hasn’t dropped significantly, they usually stop and try another option. For people who benefit, periodic reassessment every 6–12 months helps weigh long‑term benefits against increasing risk of movement or mood problems.
Alternatives for migraine prevention include propranolol, topiramate, amitriptyline, and newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies or gepants. For vestibular disorders, vestibular rehabilitation and betahistine are common alternatives depending on the cause.
Thinking of buying flunarizine online? Use only licensed pharmacies that require a valid prescription, check contact details and reviews, and avoid sites with extremely low prices or no clear credentials. Note: flunarizine is available in many countries but isn’t approved everywhere, so brand names and availability vary. Ask your doctor the key questions: how long to try the medicine, what dose to start, what side effects to watch for, and when to follow up. That keeps treatment safer and more effective.
