Structure of Nimodipine
Nimodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with a substituted phenyl ring and a methoxyethyl side chain attached to the dihydropyridine core.
Chemical Formula: C₂₄H₃₀N₂O₆
Mode of Action
Calcium Channel Blocking: Selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in cerebral vascular smooth muscle.
Vasodilation: Specifically targets cerebral arteries, preventing vasospasm.
Neuroprotection: Enhances cerebral blood flow, protecting against ischemic neuronal damage.
Uses
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Prevents cerebral vasospasm and reduces the risk of delayed ischemic neurological deficits.
Cerebral Vasospasm: Manages and prevents vasospasm following hemorrhagic stroke.
Other Cerebrovascular Disorders: May be used off-label for various conditions involving cerebral blood flow impairment.