Sibelium Side Effects

Sibelium is primarily used for the prevention of migraine headaches and is known to have several potential side effects. Sibelium can have various side effects, some of which are more common than others. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person health conditions. Common and less common side effects associated with Sibelium may include.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: Feeling sleepy or fatigued is a common side effect of Sibelium. It can impair alertness and concentration in some individuals.
• Weight gain: Some people might experience an increase in body weight while taking Sibelium.
• Increased appetite: Sibelium can lead to an increased desire to eat, contributing to weight gain in some cases.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, especially upon standing up, might occur as a side effect.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances: This could include symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or indigestion.
• Mood changes: Some individuals may experience changes in mood, such as feelings of depression or anxiety.
• Muscle stiffness or tremors: Sibelium might cause muscle stiffness or tremors in some individuals.
• Parkinsonism-like symptoms: In rare cases, Sibelium can cause symptoms resembling those of Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movements.
• Sleep disturbances: Some individuals might experience changes in their sleep patterns, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

Less Common Side Effects

• Extrapyramidal symptoms: These are movement disorders that can include involuntary muscle movements, restlessness, rigidity, and tremors. These symptoms might resemble those seen in Parkinson’s disease.
• Parkinsonism: Sibelium has been associated with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, such as stiffness, tremors, and slow movements.
• Depression or changes in mood: Some individuals might experience changes in mood, including feelings of depression or anxiety.
• Sleep disturbances: Sibelium might cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness in some individuals.
• Weight changes: While weight gain is a common side effect, some individuals might experience weight loss instead.
• Hair loss: In rare instances, Sibelium might be associated with hair loss or thinning of hair.
• Visual disturbances: Uncommonly, Sibelium might cause blurred vision or other vision changes.
• Allergic reactions: Although less common, allergic reactions like skin rash, itching, or swelling can occur in some individuals.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, Sibelium might affect liver function, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, or changes in urine color.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Some individuals might experience hypersensitivity reactions that could manifest as skin reactions, fever, or joint pain.

Sibelium is one of the leading brands of Flunarizine (HCl), manufactured and marketed by Janssen-Cilag.

Presently, Sibelium is available in Capsule Form with the following strength.

Sibelium Capsule : 5mg strength.

1. Central nervous system depressants: Sibelium can potentiate the sedative effects of other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, and certain antidepressants. This combination can increase drowsiness and impair cognitive functions.
2. Antihypertensive medications: Sibelium might enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of antihypertensive drugs, potentially causing excessive lowering of blood pressure.
3. Antiepileptic drugs: Sibelium may interact with antiepileptic medications, altering their effects. Combining Sibelium with antiepileptic drugs might increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness or dizziness.
4. Dopamine agonists: There is a potential for interaction between Sibelium and dopamine agonists, which might increase the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms or Parkinsonism-like side effects.
5. Cimetidine: Cimetidine, used to reduce stomach acid, might increase Sibelium blood levels, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects.
6. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants: These antidepressants, when combined with Sibelium, might increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious condition characterized by high levels of serotonin that can lead to symptoms such as confusion, fever, and seizures.
7. Contraceptives: Sibelium might reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. Additional contraceptive measures might be required in women taking Sibelium.
8. Grapefruit juice: Like many medications, Sibelium metabolism may be affected by grapefruit juice, potentially altering its levels in the blood and increasing the risk of side effects.