Cinnarizine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Cinnarizine
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Click HereSummary
Cinnarizine is used to treat symptoms of balance disorders and motion sickness, such as vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. It is also effective in improving blood circulation in the brain.
Cinnarizine works by blocking calcium channels in the brain, reducing the activity of the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. This helps alleviate symptoms associated with balance disorders and motion sickness.
Cinnarizine should be taken orally, preferably after meals. For balance disorders, adults and children over 12 years should take two tablets three times a day. For motion sickness, adults and children over 12 years should take two tablets two hours before travel and one tablet every eight hours during the journey if necessary.
The most commonly reported side effects of Cinnarizine include drowsiness, nausea, and weight gain. If you experience any side effects, consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Cinnarizine should not be used by individuals allergic to it. It should be used cautiously in patients with Parkinson's disease, hepatic or renal insufficiency. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery if affected. Also, avoid alcohol as it can enhance the sedative effects of the drug.
Indications and Purpose
How does Cinnarizine work?
Cinnarizine is a piperazine derivative that acts as an antihistamine. It works by blocking calcium channels, reducing the availability of calcium ions needed for muscle contractions. This action helps to alleviate symptoms of balance disorders by reducing the activity of the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation.
How does one know if Cinnarizine is working?
The benefit of Cinnarizine is evaluated through clinical trials and post-marketing experiences. These studies assess its effectiveness in managing symptoms of balance disorders and motion sickness. Healthcare professionals monitor patients for symptom improvement and any adverse effects, adjusting treatment as necessary to ensure the best therapeutic outcome.
Is Cinnarizine effective?
Cinnarizine's effectiveness has been evaluated in clinical trials involving subjects with peripheral and cerebral circulatory disorders, vertigo, and motion sickness. These trials have shown that Cinnarizine is effective in managing symptoms associated with these conditions, such as vertigo and nausea. However, individual responses may vary, and consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is recommended.
What is Cinnarizine?
Cinnarizine is used to manage balance disorders and motion sickness symptoms, such as vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. It works by blocking calcium channels in the brain, reducing the activity of the vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation. This action helps alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.
What is Cinnarizine used for?
Cinnarizine is indicated for the maintenance therapy of balance disorders, including symptoms like vertigo, tinnitus, nystagmus, nausea, and vomiting, as seen in Meniere's Disease. It is also effective in controlling motion sickness. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on its use for these conditions.
Directions for Use
How do I take Cinnarizine?
Cinnarizine should be taken orally, preferably after meals to reduce gastric irritation. The tablets can be sucked, chewed, or swallowed whole with water. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is advisable to avoid alcohol as it can enhance the sedative effects of the medication.
How long does it take for Cinnarizine to start working?
Cinnarizine is absorbed relatively slowly, with peak serum concentrations occurring 2.5 to 4 hours after oral administration. The onset of action may vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on what to expect when starting Cinnarizine.
How should I store Cinnarizine?
Cinnarizine does not require any special storage conditions. It should be kept in its original packaging, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children. Always check the expiration date and consult a pharmacist if you have any concerns about the storage of your medication.
What is the usual dose of Cinnarizine?
For vestibular symptoms, adults, elderly, and children over 12 years should take two tablets three times a day. Children aged 5-12 years should take one tablet three times a day. For motion sickness, adults, elderly, and children over 12 years should take two tablets two hours before travel and one tablet every eight hours during the journey if necessary. Children aged 5-12 years should take one tablet two hours before travel and half a tablet every eight hours during the journey if necessary.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Cinnarizine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the excretion of Cinnarizine in human breast milk, and its use while breastfeeding is not recommended. Nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice and consider alternative treatments to ensure the safety of the infant.
Can Cinnarizine be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Cinnarizine during pregnancy has not been established, and it is not advisable to use it during pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown teratogenic effects, but there is no strong evidence from human studies. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice and consider alternative treatments.
Can I take Cinnarizine with other prescription drugs?
Cinnarizine can interact with alcohol, CNS depressants, and tricyclic antidepressants, potentially enhancing their sedative effects. This can lead to increased drowsiness or sleepiness. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe use of Cinnarizine.
Is Cinnarizine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients can use Cinnarizine, but they should follow the same dosage as adults. However, due to the potential for increased sensitivity to side effects like drowsiness, it is important for elderly patients to be cautious, especially when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving. Consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is recommended.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Cinnarizine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Cinnarizine may enhance the sedative effects of the drug. This means that alcohol can increase drowsiness or sleepiness caused by Cinnarizine, potentially affecting your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. It is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication to prevent these enhanced effects.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Cinnarizine?
Cinnarizine is a medication used to treat symptoms of motion sickness and vertigo, and to improve blood circulation in the brain. It may cause drowsiness, especially when you first start taking it. So, it is important to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Who should avoid taking Cinnarizine?
Cinnarizine should not be used by individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug or its excipients. It should be used cautiously in patients with Parkinson's disease, as it may aggravate symptoms. Avoid use in porphyria and be cautious in patients with hepatic or renal insufficiency. Cinnarizine may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery if affected. Alcohol and CNS depressants can enhance its sedative effects.
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