Fluver 5mg Tablet

Uses of Fluver 5mg Tablet

• Treats Migraine

How does Fluver 5mg Tablet work?

Flunarizine works primarily by blocking the influx of calcium ions into cells. By blocking calcium channels, it reduces the entry of calcium into smooth muscle cells and neurons. This mechanism helps in the relaxation of blood vessels, which can be beneficial in the prevention of migraine attacks and the treatment of certain cardiovascular conditions.

In addition to its calcium channel-blocking effect, Flunarizine may also have interactions with certain neurotransmitters. It has been reported to block specific neurotransmitter receptors, including those for dopamine and serotonin. By blocking these receptors, Flunarizine may modulate the release and activity of these neurotransmitters, which can contribute to its therapeutic effects.

The combined actions of calcium channel blocking and interactions with neurotransmitters help to stabilize blood vessels, reduce hyperexcitability, and prevent or minimize the occurrence of migraine attacks.

Side Effects of Fluver 5mg Tablet

COMMON side effects may include:

1. Increase in body weight
2. Increased appetite
3. Blocked or runny nose
4. Feeling low or depressed
5. Problems with sleeping or feeling sleepy
6. Nausea
7. Constipation
8. Stomach pain or other digestive problems
9. Muscle aches
10. Painful breasts
11. Menstrual problems such as irregular periods
12. Feeling tired

UNCOMMON side effects may include:

1. Feeling uninterested, anxious, restless, weak, or lacking energy
2. Feeling of disorientation
3. Blockage in the gut, indigestion
4. Vomiting
5. Awareness of unusual heartbeat
6. Low blood pressure
7. Twitching of muscles or spasms, twisted neck
8. Swollen breasts
9. Unusually heavy or scanty periods
10. Lack of sex drive
11. Swelling involving hands, legs, feet, or other parts of the body
12. Dry mouth
13. Excessive sweating
14. Allergic reaction, skin rash
15. Flushing, hives

RARE side effects may include:

1. Numbness or tingling sensation in the hands or feet
2. Buzzing, whistling, hissing, or ringing noise in the ears

It's important to note that these side effects are not exhaustive, and individual experiences may vary. If you experience any of these side effects or any other unusual symptoms while taking Flunarizine, it is recommended to stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation and guidance.

Remember, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding your specific medical condition, treatment options, and management of side effects.

Quick Suggestions:

• Do not take Flunarizine to treat an acute attack of migraine.
• Have your meals at the same time every day
• Avoid bright lights and extreme temperatures
• Avoid loud music and noisy places
• Avoid chocolates,  cheese, processed food, alcohol, and smoking
• Get sufficient sleep and avoid stress
• It should be taken at night-time before going to bed.
• Consult your doctor if you develop skin rash, muscle aches, tremors, difficulty moving, or abnormal uncontrolled movement.

Indication of Fluver 5mg Tablet

Prevention Of Migraine Attacks

• This medicine is used to prevent migraine headaches with or without aura. It should not be used to treat a headache that has already set in.

Prevention Of Vertigo

• This medicine is used for the prevention of vertigo and other conditions of the inner ears and the brain (vestibular disorders).

Pharmacology

Flunarizine is known to have H1-receptor-blocking action, which means it can block the activity of histamine at H1 receptors. This action is believed to contribute to its effects on reducing symptoms associated with allergies, such as blocked or runny nose.

In addition to its H1-receptor-blocking action, Flunarizine also has a calcium-channel blocking effect. It inhibits the entry of calcium ions through calcium channels, particularly in smooth muscle cells and neurons. By blocking calcium channels, Flunarizine can reduce the influx of calcium ions, which may help in preventing migraine attacks by stabilizing blood vessels and reducing their hyperexcitability.

While Flunarizine is primarily indicated for the prevention of migraine attacks, it has also been used as an adjunct therapy for patients with epilepsy who are not responsive to standard treatment regimens. However, it's important to note that the use of Flunarizine for epilepsy treatment is considered off-label, meaning it is not approved by regulatory authorities specifically for this purpose. The decision to use Flunarizine as an adjunct therapy for epilepsy would typically be made by a healthcare professional based on the individual patient's condition and their response to other treatment options.

Dosage & Administration of Fluver 5mg Tablet

• Fluver 5mg Tablet can be used as prophylaxis for migraine headaches. The initial dosage is 10mg taken at night for patients below 65 years old and 5mg daily for patients above 65 years old. If any undesirable symptoms such as depression or extrapyramidal symptoms occur during treatment, they should be stopped. If there is no significant improvement observed after 2 months of treatment, the patient should be considered a non-responder and the medication should be discontinued.
• If the patient responds well to the treatment and requires maintenance treatment, the dosage should be reduced to 5 days of treatment with the same daily dosage and two consecutive medication-free days each week. If the prophylactic maintenance treatment is successful and well-tolerated, it should be stopped after 6 months and only restarted if the patient relapses.
• For peripheral vascular disease, the dosage can be increased up to 30mg per day if necessary, taken twice daily at a dose of 10mg.
• For vertigo and motion sickness, adults can take 10-20mg daily, while children over 40kg can take 5mg daily.
• For epileptic seizures, adults can take 15-20mg daily, and children can take 5-10mg daily as an add-on treatment. It is important to consult a doctor before starting any treatment and to follow their instructions carefully.

Take Fluver 5mg Tablet as advised by your doctor. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration for you depending on your age, body weight, and disease condition.

Interaction

Interaction with Alcohol: It is generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking medication. Alcohol can interact with certain medications and either increase or decrease their effectiveness or cause unwanted side effects. Additionally, combining alcohol with certain medications, such as those that affect the central nervous system, can lead to increased drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired judgment. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided with your medication regarding alcohol consumption.

Interaction with Amlodipine: If you are taking Amlodipine along with another medication, it is recommended to inform your doctor. They may need to adjust their dosage and monitor their blood pressure more frequently to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize any potential side effects.

Interaction with Carbamazepine: If you are taking Carbamazepine along with another medication, it is important to report it to your doctor. They may need to adjust your dosage and monitor you more closely to ensure the safe and effective use of both medications. It is crucial not to stop the use of any medicine without consulting your doctor.

Interaction with Phenytoin: If you are taking Phenytoin along with another medication, it is recommended to report it to your doctor. They may need to adjust your dosage and closely monitor you to ensure the safe and effective use of both medications.

Interaction with Ethinyl Estradiol: If you are using any oral hormonal contraceptive medicine and you need to take another medication, it is advisable to inform your doctor. They can provide guidance on using alternate means of contraception while taking the new medication. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before starting any new medication.

Interaction with Diazepam: If you are taking Diazepam along with another medication, it is important to report it to your doctor. The combination of these medications may significantly increase the risk of adverse effects. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage and closely monitor you to ensure your safety.

Regarding the interactions with specific diseases:

Gastrointestinal Blockage: If you have a partial or total bowel obstruction, the mentioned medicine may not be recommended for use. The risk of adverse effects can be significantly high in such cases, and your doctor may suggest an alternative medication that is more suitable for your condition.

Urinary Tract Obstruction: If you have a partial or total urinary tract obstruction, the mentioned medicine may not be recommended for use. The risk of adverse effects can be significantly high in such cases, and your doctor may suggest an alternative medication that is more suitable for your condition.

Porphyria: If you have porphyria, which is a genetic disorder affecting the blood and skin, the mentioned medicine may not be recommended for use. The risk of adverse effects can be significantly high in individuals with this condition, and your doctor may suggest an alternative medication that is more suitable for you.

Depression: If you have depressive disorders or are experiencing acute episodes of depression, the mentioned medicine should be used with caution. It is important to discuss your condition with your doctor, as they can assess the risks and benefits and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Contraindications

Pregnancy: During pregnancy, it is crucial to be cautious about taking any medications, as certain drugs can potentially harm the developing fetus. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. They can assess the potential risks and benefits and provide appropriate guidance on medication usage during pregnancy.

Lactation: Some medications can pass into breast milk and may affect the nursing infant. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications. They can provide guidance on the safety of specific medications during lactation and recommend suitable alternatives if necessary.

Gastrointestinal (GI) or Urinary Tract Obstruction: If you have a partial or total obstruction of the gastrointestinal or urinary tract, certain medications may not be recommended. The risk of adverse effects can be significantly higher in these conditions. It is important to consult your healthcare provider, who can assess your specific situation and recommend alternative medications that are more suitable for you.

Acute Porphyrias: Porphyrias are a group of rare genetic disorders affecting the production of heme, a component of hemoglobin. Acute porphyrias can be triggered or worsened by certain medications. If you have a diagnosis of acute porphyria, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about it. They can evaluate the safety of specific medications and suggest suitable alternatives to avoid exacerbating your condition.

Pregnancy & Lactation

When it comes to medication use during pregnancy and lactation, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians, gynecologists, or pediatricians, who have access to the most up-to-date research and guidelines. They can provide individualized advice based on your specific situation, taking into account factors such as the stage of pregnancy, the specific medication, and the potential risks and benefits.

Pregnancy and lactation are critical periods where the potential effects of medications on the developing fetus or nursing infant need to be carefully considered. Medical professionals will assess the available evidence, weigh the risks versus benefits, and make recommendations accordingly to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

If you have concerns about medication use during pregnancy or lactation, I strongly encourage you to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and clarification. They are best equipped to provide you with accurate and personalized information based on your specific circumstances.

Precautions & Warnings

Tiredness and Central Nervous System Depressants: Flunarizine may cause tiredness or drowsiness, which can be further enhanced when taken in combination with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. It is important for patients to be cautious and avoid activities such as driving or operating heavy machinery that require mental alertness. Combining flunarizine with these substances can increase the risk of accidents or injuries.

Ineffectiveness for Acute Migraine Attacks: Flunarizine is not suitable for aborting or stopping an ongoing migraine attack. It is intended for long-term prevention of migraine attacks, rather than providing immediate relief during an acute episode.

Extrapyramidal and Depressive Symptoms: Flunarizine treatment may lead to the development of extrapyramidal symptoms, which are movement disorders affecting muscle control, and depressive symptoms. Additionally, it may unmask or worsen Parkinsonism, especially in susceptible individuals such as the elderly. Therefore, caution should be exercised when prescribing flunarizine to these patients.

Storage Conditions

Keep underneath 30°C temperature, absent from light & dampness. Keep out of the reach of children.