Sibelium (Flunarizine)

Indications

Sibelium (generically known as flunarizine) is used for the prophylactic (preventative) treatment of migraines and vertigo (dizziness). It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. Sibelium works by dilating the blood vessels in the brain, which helps to prevent the narrowing of blood vessels that can cause migraine headaches.

Sibelium also stabilizes the membranes of nerve cells, which helps to reduce the hyperexcitability of nerve cells in the brain that can lead to migraines. Sibelium is typically taken on a daily basis to prevent migraines from occurring, rather than as a treatment for a migraine episode that has already started.

Flunarizine is not used to treat an acute attack of migraine, but rather to help prevent future episodes. It must be taken regularly to be effective. It is available in tablet form, typically in doses of either 5mg or 10mg.

Use and Dosage

Flunarizine tablets are taken orally in the form of a tablet as directed by your doctor, usually once a day in the morning. Swallow it whole. Do not chew, crush, or break it. Sibelium 10mg Tablet may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. If you are taking Flunarizine tablets twice a day, your doctor may instruct you to take one tablet in the morning and one tablet at noon.

The dosage of Flunarizine tablets is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The recommended initial dosage for Sibelium is one 5-mg tablet taken at bedtime. The dosage may then be gradually increased to 10 mg/day or as recommended by the doctor. However, this should only be done following the doctor's instructions, and the maximum recommended dose is 10 mg/day.

Take the medication regularly at the same time each day to get the most benefit from it. Even if you feel well, continue taking Flunarizine tablets and do not stop without first consulting your doctor, as abruptly stopping the medication can worsen some conditions.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Sibelium (Flunarizine):

• Breast pain
• Constipation
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Increased appetite
• Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Runny nose
• Sleepiness
• Stomach discomfort
• Weight gain

Serious Side Effects of Sibelium (Flunarizine):

• Blocked or runny nose
• Change in mood
• Depression
• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Excessive sweating
• Increased appetite
• Irregular menstruation
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears
• Swelling of face, lips, eyelids, tongue, hands, and feet
• Tingling or numbness of the hands and feet
• Twitching and unusual movement of muscles
• Unusual tiredness and weakness
• Weight gain

Forms and Strength

Sibelium (Flunarizine) is available in the following forms and strength:

Sibelium: Tablet

• 5 mg
• 10 mg

Flunarizine: Tablet

• 5 mg
• 10 mg

Cautions

• Sibelium may cause drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Sibelium may cause weight gain or changes in mood, monitor your weight and mood while taking this medication and report any changes to your healthcare provider.
• Sibelium may interact with other medications, such as certain antidepressants and antipsychotics, let your healthcare provider know about all the medications you are taking before starting Sibelium.
• Sibelium is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in these populations.
• Sibelium may cause liver problems in some patients, who have regular liver function tests while taking this medication.
•  Sibelium may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. Get up slowly and steady yourself before standing.
• Sibelium may cause a decrease in blood pressure, monitor your blood pressure while taking this medication.
• Sibelium may interact with alcohol, avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• Sibelium may cause sleepiness, avoid taking other medications or supplements that may cause drowsiness while taking this medication.
• Sibelium may cause increased appetite and weight gain, monitor your weight and diet while taking this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can Sibelium be used for the treatment of acute migraines?

No, Sibelium is not used to treat acute migraine attacks. It is used as a preventative treatment to reduce the frequency and severity of future migraine episodes.

How long does it take for Sibelium to start working?

It may take several weeks for the full effects of Sibelium to be seen. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Can Sibelium be used for other conditions besides migraines and vertigo?

Sibelium is primarily used for the prophylactic treatment of migraines and vertigo, and its safety and effectiveness have not been established for other conditions.

Can Sibelium be used in patients with liver problems?

Sibelium may cause liver problems in some patients, who have regular liver function tests while taking this medication. It may not be recommended for use in patients with severe liver problems.

Should Sibelium be taken with food?

Sibelium can be taken with or without food. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Resources

• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1774-95/fluoxetine-oral/fluoxetine-oral/details
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/213973s000lbl.pdf
• https://headachejournal.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1526-4610.1981.hed2106235.x
• https://www.1mg.com/drugs/sibelium-10mg-tablet-163965
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/9652-headache-medicine