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Cinnarizine

Generic Medicine
Indications

Cinnarizine is primarily used for the symptomatic treatment of nausea and vertigo associated with Meniere's disease and other labyrinthine disorders, as well as for the prevention and treatment of motion sickness. It is also used in the management of various vascular conditions.

Cerebral circulatory disorders:

  • Prophylaxis and maintenance therapy for symptoms of cerebral vascular spasm and arteriosclerosis such as dizziness, tinnitus (ear buzzing), vascular headache, irritability, fatigue, sleep disturbances (e.g., early awakening), depressive states, memory impairment, reduced concentration, incontinence, and other age-related conditions
  • Sequelae of cerebral and cranial trauma
  • Post-apoplectic conditions
  • Migraine

Peripheral circulatory disorders: Prophylaxis and maintenance therapy for symptoms of vascular spasm and arteriosclerosis (e.g., obliterative arteritis, thromboangiitis obliterans, Raynaud’s disease, diabetic vascular complications, acrocyanosis, etc.) including intermittent claudication, trophic disturbances, pregangrene, trophic and varicose ulcers, paraesthesia, nocturnal cramps, and cold extremities

Disorders of balance:

  • Prophylaxis and maintenance therapy for labyrinthine and vestibular disorders such as Meniere’s syndrome presenting with vertigo, dizziness, giddiness, syncope, tinnitus, nystagmus, nausea, and vomiting
  • Prevention of motion sickness
Description

Cinnarizine exerts its therapeutic effects in peripheral vascular disorders through its anti-vasoconstrictive action, reduction of blood viscosity, and anti-ischemic properties. It acts by blocking calcium entry into vascular smooth muscle, leading to improved blood flow and increased flexibility of erythrocytes in ischemic conditions.

Pharmacology

Cinnarizine acts as an antihistamine, a vestibular sedative, and a peripheral vasodilator. It functions as a selective calcium channel antagonist, inhibiting intracellular calcium influx. By preventing calcium-dependent contraction of vascular smooth muscle, it promotes vasodilation and improves blood circulation. These actions help alleviate vestibular symptoms and support management of peripheral arterial disorders.

Dosage Administration

Usual adult dose: 15 to 30 mg three times daily.
Children (5 to 12 years): Half of the adult dose.
Motion sickness: A dose of 30 mg two hours before the start of the journey and 15 mg every 8 hours during the journey.
Peripheral arterial diseases: 75 mg two or three times daily.

Interactions

No clinically significant drug interactions have been observed when Cinnarizine is used together with antihypertensives, diuretics, anticoagulants, or hypoglycemic agents.

Contraindications

There are no specific contraindications. However, as Cinnarizine may lower blood pressure, it should be used cautiously in patients with hypotension.

Side Effects

Adverse effects such as drowsiness and gastrointestinal disturbances are very rare. These are usually mild and temporary, and may be minimized by gradual dose adjustment. Occasionally, allergic skin reactions and fatigue have been reported. In rare cases, especially in elderly patients during prolonged therapy, extrapyramidal symptoms may develop or worsen. In such cases, treatment should be reduced or discontinued.

Pregnancy & Lactation

The safety of Cinnarizine during pregnancy has not been established in humans, although animal studies have not shown teratogenic effects. Therefore, its use during pregnancy is not recommended.

Precautions & Warnings

Cinnarizine may cause drowsiness. Patients experiencing this effect should avoid driving or operating machinery. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided.

Therapeutic Class

Anti vertigo drugs

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Common Questions

What is Cinnarizine for?

What does Cinnarizine do?

What are the side effects of Cinnarizine?

What happens if you take too much Cinnarizine?

Can Cinnarizine be taken during pregnancy?

No available drugs found

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