Flunarizine is used to prevent migraine headaches. Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Flunarizine is used to prevent migraine headaches. Flunarizine limits the production of a chemical know as nitric oxide, which may be a cause to migraine attacks. 

How should I take or use this medication?

• This medication is usually taken once daily, at night before bedtime.
• You may take this medication with or without food. 
• As this medication is used to prevent migraines, you should take it regularly as instructed even if you are not currently experiencing a migraine. 
• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
• This medication is not effective in treating ongoing migraines. Speak to your doctor about medications to take if you are experiencing a migraine headache. 

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. 
• However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• You have a history of 
  • Liver disease
  • Parkinson’s disease (condition that affects body movement)
  • Depression
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications, and herbal remedies. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Drowsiness
  • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration
• Increase in appetite
• Weight gain       
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle that involves healthy diet choices and an adequate amount of physical exercise
• Dry mouth
• Upset stomach

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Very rarely, Flunarizine can cause abnormal movements which are  known as extrapyramidal symptoms. This can include restlessness, uncontrollable and repetitive movements of the face, tongue or limbs. 

Very rarely, Flunarizine can cause low mood and depressive symptoms.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects with this medication. 

Flunarizine can generally be taken with most other foods or medications. However, please inform your healthcare professionals if you are taking other medications or herbal preparations.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin. 

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Oct 2024