Nimodipine Lyophilized Injection

Category: Calcium channel blocker (CCB) – dihydropyridine class
Form: Lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder for reconstitution and intravenous (IV) use

Uses:

• Primarily used to prevent and treat cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) due to ruptured cerebral aneurysms.

• Helps reduce the risk of delayed ischemic neurological deficits caused by cerebral artery constriction.

• Occasionally used in other cerebrovascular conditions under specialist supervision.

Mechanism of Action:

• Nimodipine selectively blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle.

• Causes relaxation of cerebral arteries, improving cerebral blood flow.

• Reduces calcium influx into neurons, potentially providing neuroprotective effects.

• More selective for cerebral vessels compared to peripheral arteries.

Administration:

• Lyophilized powder must be reconstituted with a suitable diluent before IV infusion.

• Administered as a slow intravenous infusion under strict monitoring.

• Dosage is individualized based on patient condition and clinical protocols.

Side Effects:

• Cardiovascular: hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), flushing.

• Neurological: headache, dizziness.

• Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting.

• Rarely: allergic reactions or injection site irritation.

Precautions:

• Continuous blood pressure and heart rate monitoring is essential.

• Use caution in patients with severe hypotension or heart failure.

• Avoid rapid infusion to prevent sudden hypotension.

Summary:
Nimodipine Lyophilized Injection is a calcium channel blocker used mainly to prevent cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage. It works by dilating cerebral arteries and providing neuroprotection. Administration is intravenous after reconstitution, with careful monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate. Side effects are mainly cardiovascular, such as hypotension and flushing.