Flunarizine
Flunarizine is a calcium channel blocker primarily used for the preventive treatment of migraine headaches and management of vestibular disorders such as vertigo. It is not intended for acute migraine attacks but rather reduces the frequency and severity of migraine episodes with regular use.
Flunarizine is a migraine prevention medication that works by blocking calcium channels to reduce headache frequency and treat vertigo.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N07CA03
- RxNorm
- 4459
- Generic
- Flunarizine
- Class
- atc-n07
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prophylactic treatment of migraine (with and without aura) and symptomatic treatment of vestibular disorders including vertigo associated with Ménière's disease and vestibular neuronitis. It is not effective for treating acute migraine attacks.
As a selective calcium channel blocker, flunarizine inhibits calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle cells and neurons. This prevents vasoconstriction and may modulate neurotransmitter release, particularly reducing the neuronal hyperexcitability associated with migraine pathophysiology.
May cause drowsiness, particularly during initial treatment. Should be used with caution in patients with a history of depression or extrapyramidal symptoms. Typically takes several weeks of continuous use before therapeutic effects are observed. Avoid alcohol during treatment. Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women without careful risk assessment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy