sibelium tablet uses

سیبیلیم گولی کا استعمال

Written by Dr. Kashmala [PharmD, DOW University Of Health Sciences (DUHS)], Karachi, Pakistan.

Brand name

Sibelium

Generic name

Flunarizine

Available dosage forms and their doses

Cap 5mg and Tab 10mg in some countries

Price

242 Rupees

Available in packs containing 12 capsules

Therapeutic class:

Anti-migraine agent

Pharmacological class

Calcium channel blocker

Manufacturer:

Aspin Pharma Pvt. Ltd

Storage

below 30°C

Prescription drug?

Yes, Sibelium (Flunarizine) is a prescription-only medication

Clinical pharmacology (mechanism of action)

It inhibits voltage-gated calcium channels and shows antihistaminic and sedative properties.

Indications and dosages

Migraine Prevention, Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Cerebral Vascular Disorders, Epilepsy

Dosage

For Adults, mg to 10 mg daily

For Elderly Patients (above 65 years): a lower dose of 5 mg daily is recommended

Side effects

Drowsiness or Sedation, Weight Gain, Dry Mouth, Constipation, Fatigue, Depression or Mood Changes                      

Interactions

Benzodiazepines, e.g., diazepam, lorazepam, Antidepressants and Antipsychotics(e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), and antipsychotic medications (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone), antihypertensive drugs (e.g., beta-blockers like propranolol)

Pregnancy

Category C: Flunarizine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus

Lactation

Flunarizine is known to be excreted in breast milk. While it is not recommended to take Sibelium while breastfeeding unless

Precautions

Allergic Reactions, Liver Disease, Extrapyramidal Symptoms, Cardiovascular Conditions, 

Counselling points:

• Take once daily, preferably at bedtime, to minimize drowsiness.

• Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not crush or chew it.

• Stick to the prescribed dose; do not exceed it or stop abruptly without consulting your

  doctor. This medication is not intended for lifelong use unless advised by a physician.

• Often reviewed after 5-6 months to evaluate effectiveness and safety.