Megrim
Megrim Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Megrim is a brand name. Its generic name is Flunarizine.
Introduction
Megrim is a calcium channel blocker used in the treatment of migraine, vertigo, and neurosensory deafness. It is a highly selective antagonist of the L-type calcium channels in the brain, modulating the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate, norepinephrine, and serotonin, thereby providing relief from the symptoms of migraine.Uses
Megrim is used to treat migraine, vertigo, and neurosensory deafness. It is also used to prevent migraine headaches and other similar conditions.Mechanism of Action
Megrim is a highly selective antagonist of the L-type calcium channels in the brain. By blocking the L-type channels, it modulates the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate, norepinephrine, and serotonin, thereby providing relief from the symptoms of migraine. Megrim also blocks the calcium channels present in peripheral blood vessels, thereby reduced the amount of calcium available, which leads to the relaxation of the blood vessels and reduction in blood pressure.How Long Does It Take to Work?
The effects of flunarizine can be noticed after about 6-8 hours after the initial dose. It may take up to two weeks for the full therapeutic effects of flunarizine to be noticed.Absorption
Megrim is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. The peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1-2 hours.Route of Elimination
Megrim is eliminated from the body in urine and feces. It undergoes extensive biotransformation and has an elimination half-life of around 25-30 hours.Dosage
Megrim is available in the form of tablets and capsules containing 10mg of flunarizine. The recommended dosage of flunarizine for migraine prophylaxis is 10-20mg per day in divided doses, or as advised by a doctor. It should not be taken more than twice a day.Administration
Megrim should be taken orally with or without food. It can be taken with food to reduce the adverse effects. It should not be taken with alcohol as it can increase the side-effects.Side Effects
The side effects associated with flunarizine include drowsiness, abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, dry mouth, headache and constipation.Toxicity
The acute oral toxicity of flunarizine is very low. Long-term exposure of flunarizine in higher doses than recommended can lead to toxicity. The primary effects of flunarizine toxicity include bradycardia, QT prolongation, and cardiac arrhythmias.Precaution
It is recommended to avoid using flunarizine in patients with history of congenital or acquired QT prolongation, orthostatic intolerance, myasthenia gravis, depression, Parkinson’s disease and renal impairment.Interaction
Megrim may interact with other medicines such as anticonvulsants, antibiotics, and antihistamines.Disease Interactions
Megrim may interact with certain diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.Drug Interactions
Megrim may interact with other drugs and can increase the risk of toxicity or adverse effects.Food Interactions
Megrim should be taken after a meal to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. Avoid taking flunarizine with alcohol.Pregnancy Use
Megrim should be avoided in pregnant women unless the benefit outweighs the risk.Lactation Use
Megrim should be avoided in breastfeeding women as it can be passed through breast milk and may cause adverse effects on the infant.Acute Overdose
Acute overdose with flunarizine can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, seizures, bradycardia, and hypotension.Contraindication
Megrim is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug.Use Direction
The benefits and effectiveness of flunarizine should be discussed with a doctor before using the medication.Storage Condition
Megrim should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.Volume of Distribution
Megrim has a volume of distribution of 11L/kg.Half Life
The elimination half-life of flunarizine is around 25-30 hours.Clearance
The clearance of flunarizine is 5.9 L/h.Here you find in details version of Megrim
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Megrim
.Q1. What is Megrim?
Megrim is a medication used to prevent headaches, migraines, and vertigo primarily caused by vascular problems. It belongs to the calcium channel blocker family, which works by blocking signals in the brain to decrease the intensity of the headache or migraine.
Q2. How does Megrim work?
Megrim belongs to the calcium channel blocker family, which works by blocking signals in the brain to decrease the intensity of the headache or migraine. It also relaxes the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and can reduce the severity of the headaches.
Q3. What are the uses of Megrim?
Megrim is used primarily to prevent headaches, migraines, and vertigo. It can also be used to prevent cluster headaches. Additionally, it may be used to treat neuropathic pain caused by diabetes.
Q4. Is Megrim safe?
When taken as directed, Megrim is generally safe. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions, as taking too much can cause serious side effects. It is important to note that Megrim may interact with other medications.
Q5. What are the side effects of Megrim?
Common side effects of Megrim include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating. In rare cases, Megrim may cause more serious side effects, such as kidney problems, liver damage, skin rash, or muscle weakness.
Q6. Who should not take Megrim?
Patients with certain medical conditions should not take Megrim. These include pregnant or nursing mothers, those with kidney or liver problems, or those taking certain medications. If you have any questions, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Q7. How do I take Megrim?
Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking Megrim. Generally, adults should take 5-10mg once daily at bedtime. You should not take more than 15mg of Megrim per day. Take Megrim with food or milk to reduce nausea.
Q8. How long does it take for Megrim to work?
It can take up to 4 weeks for Megrim to start working. During this time, your doctor may adjust your dosage to find the best results. Generally, Megrim is most effective when taken over a long period of time.
Q9. What should I do if I miss a dose of Megrim?
If you miss a dose of Megrim, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.
Q10. Is flunarizine habit-forming?
No, flunarizine is not addictive. If you take flunarizine for a long period of time, your doctor may need to gradually reduce your dose before stopping it completely.
Q11. Is Megrim generic?
Yes, flunarizine is a generic medication. It is also available under brand names such as Sibelium,Calaptin, Solariz, and Fluress.
Q12. What are the possible drug interactions of Megrim?
Megrim may interact with other medications, such as drugs to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, or depression. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you take. It is also important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Megrim.
Q13. Are there any other precautions to consider when taking Megrim?
Yes, it is important to avoid performing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, while taking Megrim. Additionally, Megrim may increase the risk of allergic reactions, so be sure to discuss any allergies you have with your doctor.
Q14. Is Megrim available over the counter?
No, Megrim is not available over the counter. It must be prescribed by a physician.
Q15. Is Megrim safe for children?
No, children under the age of 12 should not take Megrim. For children ages 12 to 18, the dosage and treatment schedule should be discussed with a doctor.
Q16. Can Megrim be used to treat depression?
No, Megrim is not effective for treating depression. It is only used to prevent headaches, migraines, vertigo, and cluster headaches.
Q17. Is Megrim safe for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women should not take Megrim. It can cause birth defects and other serious side effects.
Q18. Is Megrim safe for nursing mothers?
No, nursing mothers should not take Megrim, as it can pass through breast milk and can harm the infant.
Q19. Is Megrim an opioid?
No, Megrim is not an opioid. It is a medication used to prevent headaches, migraines, and vertigo.
Q20. Does Megrim have any interactions with other drugs?
Yes, Megrim may interact with other drugs, such as drugs to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, or depression. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you take.
Q21. How long can I take Megrim?
Megrim is generally taken over a long period of time, but the exact length of treatment should be discussed with your doctor. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Megrim.
Q22. Does Megrim cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Megrim, though it is possible. If you experience unexplained weight gain while taking Megrim, contact your doctor.
Q23. What should I do if I experience serious side effects from Megrim?
If you experience serious side effects such as kidney problems, liver damage, skin rash, or muscle weakness, contact your doctor immediately.
Q24. Are there any natural alternatives to Megrim?
Some natural alternatives to Megrim include herbs, vitamins, and supplements. Always talk to your doctor before taking any herbs, vitamins, or supplements to make sure they don't interact with other medications.
Q25. What are the long-term effects of taking Megrim?
Long-term effects of taking Megrim are not well known. It is important to talk to your doctor about any risks associated with long-term use of Megrim.
Q26. What food should I avoid while taking Megrim?
If you experience nausea while taking Megrim, you should avoid foods that are high in fat, such as fried foods, and opt for lighter food like salads or fruits.
Q27. Is Megrim available in generic form?
Yes, flunarizine is a generic medication. It is also available under brand names such as Sibelium,Calaptin, Solariz, and Fluress.
Q28. How is Megrim different from other migraine medications?
Megrim works differently than other migraine medications. Instead of treating the headache, Megrim works by preventing the headache or migraine from occurring in the first place. It also takes longer to start working than other medications.
Q29. Does Megrim affect the brain?
Megrim works by blocking signals in the brain to decrease the intensity of the headache or migraine. It also relaxes the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and can reduce the severity of the headaches.
Q30. Does Megrim have any interactions with alcohol?
Yes, it is important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Megrim. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.