Flunarizine Dosage: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been prescribed flunarizine, chances are you’re dealing with migraine headaches or balance problems. The drug works by calming down calcium channels in the brain, which can reduce how often attacks happen. But the benefits only show up if you take the right amount at the right time. Below we break down common dosing plans, how doctors decide what’s best for you, and safety tips to keep side effects low.

Standard Doses for Common Uses

For most adults with migraine prevention, doctors start you on 5 mg once daily. Some patients need a little more – up to 10 mg per day – if the lower dose doesn’t keep headaches at bay. When flunarizine is used for vertigo or balance disorders, the starting point is usually the same 5 mg, but some specialists may spread it out as 2.5 mg twice a day to avoid drowsiness.

The medication comes in tablets that are easy to swallow. Take your pill with food if you notice stomach upset; otherwise, taking it at bedtime can help reduce the sleepy feeling many people report.

Never double up on a missed dose. If you forget one, just take the next dose at its regular time. Skipping doses or taking extra pills won’t speed up relief and may increase side effects.

Adjusting the Dose Safely

Doctors often adjust the amount based on how you respond after two to four weeks. If migraines drop from three a week to one, the 5 mg dose is probably fine. If attacks keep coming, your doctor may raise it to 10 mg. Keep a simple headache diary – note the day, time, and severity – and bring it to each appointment.

Watch out for common side effects: mild drowsiness, dry mouth, or weight gain. These usually improve after a few weeks, but if they get worse, let your doctor know. In rare cases, flunarizine can cause depression or movement issues; any sudden mood changes should be reported right away.

If you have kidney or liver problems, the dose may need to be lowered. Always tell your pharmacist about existing health conditions before you start the medication.

When stopping flunarizine, do it under medical supervision. A gradual taper over a week helps avoid rebound headaches. Don’t quit cold turkey unless your doctor says it’s safe.

Remember, flunarizine isn’t a rescue drug – it won’t stop a migraine that’s already started. Keep an acute medication (like triptans) on hand for those moments, and use flunarizine daily to lower the overall number of attacks.

In short, start low, stay consistent, track your symptoms, and talk openly with your doctor about any side effects. That’s the quickest route to finding the right flunarizine dosage for you.