Following are side effects of Nimodipine except ?
**Core Concept**
Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker used primarily in the management of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Its pharmacological action involves the inhibition of L-type calcium channels, leading to vasodilation and improved cerebral blood flow. As a result, nimodipine can cause various side effects, particularly those related to its vasodilatory effects.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, "Marked changes in GIT motility," is not a recognized side effect of nimodipine. This is because nimodipine's primary mechanism of action is related to its effects on vascular smooth muscle, rather than gastrointestinal smooth muscle. In contrast, other calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil, can cause significant changes in gastrointestinal motility due to their effects on smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Hypotension is a recognized side effect of nimodipine, particularly at higher doses, due to its vasodilatory effects on systemic blood vessels.
**Option B:** Flushing is also a possible side effect of nimodipine, likely related to its effects on vascular smooth muscle and the release of histamine.
**Option C:** Headache is a common side effect of nimodipine, possibly related to its vasodilatory effects on cerebral blood vessels.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Nimodipine's efficacy in treating cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage is thought to be due to its ability to selectively block L-type calcium channels in cerebral blood vessels, leading to vasodilation and improved cerebral blood flow. This highlights the importance of understanding the pharmacological action of calcium channel blockers in the management of specific clinical conditions.
β Correct Answer: D. Marked changes m GIT motility