Sibelium (Flunarizine) and/or equivalents

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• This item requires a prescription from your doctor


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Description of Sibelium

Sibelium is a medicine containing a calcium channel blocker (namely, flunarizine) as its active ingredient and belongs to the class of medicines called selective calcium antagonists. It is primarily used in the treatment of migraine. Among its other uses is the treatment of vertigo and dizziness. Flunarizine regulates the movement of calcium ions into blood vessels and eases the flow of oxygen and blood through the vessels by reducing their constriction. Sibelium is also recognized by its generic name- Flunarizine.

Patients may buy Sibelium as either 5mg capsules/tablets or a 10mg tablet after this drug has been prescribed by a doctor. The inactive ingredients present in its composition are: lactose monohydrate, hypromellose, polysorbate, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose and maize starch.

Indications & Dosage of Sibelium

Sibelium is indicated in the following medical conditions as:

• Prophylaxis of migraine with or without aura
• Symptomatic treatment of vertigo as caused by disturbances in the vestibular system

All patients who buy Sibelium do not necessarily require the same dosage of this drug. It varies between individuals based on a number of factors and it is advisable to adhere to the dose prescribed by the doctor.

Generally, the recommended oral dosage for migraine in adults less than 65 years old is 5mg-10mg, taken once in the evening. For patients above 65 years, the maximum recommended daily dosage is 5mg. Dosage of this Sibelium in children should be determined by a doctor.

Treatment for vertigo involves similar dosage forms, but should not be extended for more than a period of 2 months.

Sibelium should be stored at temperatures less than 25 degrees Celsius.

Side Effects & Interactions of Sibelium

Side effects of any drug depend on individual characteristics of the consumer. Sibelium patients may or not be adversely affected by the reactions associated with this drug. Some of the more common and relatively minor (in the sense that they rarely require medical attention) side effects of Sibelium are:

• Drowsiness
• Increase in appetite, weight gain
• Dry mouth
• Stomach problems like diarrhea, constipation
• Fatigue

There, however, are certain side effects of Sibelium which should be reported immediately to a medicinal expert as they pose a serious threat to the health. They are not so common in patients. Some of them are:

• Reduced balance control
• Depression
• Speech problems
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Trembling or shakiness in arms or fingers
• Breathing problems
• Irregularities in menstrual cycle

Drug interactions are a common phenomenon. Certain drugs when co-administered may increase the effect of adverse reactions and hence require dosage adjustments. There are also drugs which should never be used in conjunction with Sibelium. It is necessary for patients to inform their doctors about the medications they are on. Some of the drugs known to interact with Sibelium are: anti-hypersensitive medicines, contraceptive drugs, hypnotic or tranquillizing drugs, acetazolamide, corticosteroids, diuretics, beta blockers, carbamazepine, certain eye medicines like betaxolol and metipranolol, erythromycin, phenytoin and valproic acid.

Warnings & Precautions of Sibelium

Sibelium is contraindicated in patients with (or history of) the following conditions:

• Parkinson’s disease or its symptoms
• Depression
• Extrapyramidal disorders
• Allergy to flunarizine

Sibelium has not been adequately studied in pregnant or lactating women.

This drug causes drowsiness. Alcohol should be avoided during Sibelium treatment.