Nimodipine
Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels in the brain. It is primarily used to prevent and treat neurological complications caused by reduced blood flow to the brain following a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the space between the brain and surrounding membrane).
A calcium channel blocker used primarily to prevent brain damage from reduced blood flow after subarachnoid hemorrhage.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C08CA06
- RxNorm
- 7426
- Generic
- Nimodipine
- Class
- atc-c08
- Brands
- Nymalize, Nimotop
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet, solution
- 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.
Nimodipine is used for the prevention and treatment of ischemic neurological deficits (brain damage from reduced blood flow) associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage from ruptured intracranial aneurysms. It may also be used off-label for other conditions affecting cerebral circulation.
Nimodipine blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, particularly in cerebral arteries. This causes relaxation and widening of brain blood vessels, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to brain tissue. It also has neuroprotective properties by reducing calcium influx into neurons.
Nimodipine is typically administered orally (tablets or oral solution) and must NOT be given intravenously due to risk of severe hypotension and cardiac events. Blood pressure should be monitored during treatment. Common side effects include hypotension, headache, flushing, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it can increase drug levels.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy