Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Nimodipine (Nymalize) and nisoldipine (Sular) are both calcium channel blockers (CCBs), but they are used for different conditions. Nimodipine is used to prevent brain damage after an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, while nisoldipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Nimodipine is taken as an oral capsule or liquid every 4 hours for 3 weeks, while nisoldipine is taken as an oral tablet once daily. Both medications are available as a brand and a lower-cost generic. Nimodipine can cause low blood pressure and diarrhea, while nisoldipine can cause swelling in the legs, feet, or hands, and headaches. Both medications have a number of interactions, including with grapefruit juice. Nimodipine is used in a hospital setting at first.
Nimodipine (Nymalize)
Nisoldipine (Sular)
Nimodipine (Nymalize)
Nisoldipine (Sular)
Summary of Nimodipine vs. Sular
Summary for Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
Prescription only
Nimodipine (Nymalize) is used to help prevent brain damage after an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (a type of brain bleed). Your provider will typically start this medication in the hospital as soon as possible, but usually within 4 days of a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Nimodipine (Nymalize) is taken by mouth or given through a feeding tube every 4 hours for 3 weeks. Generic nimodipine comes as an oral capsule, while brand name Nymalize (nimodipine) comes as an oral liquid. The most common side effect of nimodipine (Nymalize) is low blood pressure, so your provider will check your blood pressure regularly while you're taking this medication.
Summary for Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
Prescription only
Nisoldipine (Sular) is a type of blood pressure medication called a calcium channel blocker. It treats high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. The extended-release tablets are taken by mouth once per day on an empty stomach. Some side effects include swelling in the arms or legs and headache. Nisoldipine (Sular) is available as a brand-name and generic medication.
Indications of Nimodipine vs. Sular
Indications for
•Prevention of brain damage after a type of brain bleed called an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH)