Flunarizine – What It Is and Why It Matters

When working with flunarizine, a lipophilic calcium channel blocker used mainly to prevent migraine attacks and treat vestibular disorders. Also known as Sibelium, it targets the brain's blood‑vessel tone and neuronal excitability. Migraine, a recurrent headache disorder characterized by throbbing pain, nausea, and visual aura often responds well to daily prophylaxis, and flunarizine is one of the go‑to options. In the same family, calcium channel blocker, a class of meds that inhibit calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle and neurons helps relax dilated vessels, reducing the frequency of migraine episodes. This trio—flunarizine, migraine, and calcium channel blockers—forms the core of migraine prevention strategies.

How Flunarizine Helps and Who Benefits

Flunarizine works by dampening the over‑active calcium channels in the brain, which lowers neuronal firing that can trigger a migraine. Because it also has antihistamine properties, many patients notice less vertigo and better balance, making it a popular choice for vestibular migraine, a subtype where dizziness accompanies the headache. Typical dosing starts at 5 mg once daily, taken at night to capitalize on its sedative effect and minimize daytime drowsiness. Most clinicians advise a titration period of 2‑4 weeks to gauge effectiveness and side‑effect tolerance. Users often report a drop in migraine days from several per week to just one or two, and a noticeable reduction in vertigo spells.

Beyond headache control, flunarizine has shown utility in preventing recurrent cluster headaches and easing tension‑type headaches for some patients. However, it isn’t without risks. Common side effects include weight gain, dry mouth, and mild sedation; the latter is why many doctors recommend taking the pill before bedtime. Rare but serious concerns involve depression or extrapyramidal symptoms, especially in patients with a history of mood disorders. Drug interactions can occur with other antihistamines, antipsychotics, or medications that also affect dopamine pathways, so a full medication review is essential before starting therapy.

In practice, the decision to use flunarizine hinges on a balance between its migraine‑reducing power and the patient’s tolerance for its sedative profile. For those who can handle night‑time dosing, it offers a cost‑effective, once‑daily regimen that many find easier than newer CGRP‑targeting injectables. Below you’ll find articles that dig deeper into dosing strategies, side‑effect management, comparisons with other migraine preventives, and real‑world tips for safe use. Whether you’re new to flunarizine or looking to fine‑tune your current plan, the collection ahead provides practical insights you can put into action right away.