nicergoline

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

Actions: 

• Vasodilation: nicergoline acts as a vasodilator, meaning it widens the blood vessels, which can lead to increased blood flow. This effect is especially beneficial in conditions where restricted blood flow contributes to symptoms. 
• Improved Microcirculation: The vasodilatory effect of nicergoline can enhance microcirculation, which is the flow of blood through the smallest vessels (capillaries) in the body. Improved microcirculation can benefit tissues that rely on efficient oxygen and nutrient delivery. 
• Neuroprotection: nicergoline is believed to have neuroprotective properties, potentially helping to protect brain cells from damage caused by reduced blood flow or other factors. 
• Enhanced Oxygen Supply: By increasing blood flow, nicergoline may help ensure that organs and tissues receive an adequate supply of oxygen, which is vital for their proper function. 

Spectrum of Use: 

• Cerebrovascular Disorders: nicergoline is sometimes prescribed for the management of certain cerebrovascular disorders, such as ischemic stroke, where reduced blood flow to the brain can result in damage. 
• Peripheral Vascular Disorders: It may also be used to improve blood flow in peripheral vascular disorders, which can affect blood vessels outside the brain and heart, leading to symptoms like pain and numbness. 
• Vertigo and Tinnitus: nicergoline might be considered for conditions like vertigo (dizziness) and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) that are thought to be related to impaired blood flow in the inner ear. 
• Cognitive Function: Some studies have explored nicergoline’s potential role in enhancing cognitive function, particularly in individuals with cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment. 
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration: There is also some research suggesting that nicergoline could have a positive impact on blood flow in the eyes and might be considered in the management of age-related macular degeneration. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Gastrointestinal disorders: pyrosis, diarrhoea, Gastric distress, constipation, vomiting 

General disorders: Tiredness 

Nervous system disorders: cephalea, Dizziness 

Psychiatric disorders: drowsiness, Insomnia 

Reproductive system disorders: decreased libido, Sexual impotence 

Vascular disorders: Flushing, hyperuricaemia, Hypotension 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There were no black box warnings associated with nicergoline 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to nicergoline or any of its components should not use this medication. 
• Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): nicergoline might be contraindicated in individuals who have recently experienced an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) due to potential interactions with cardiovascular medications and the individual’s current medical condition. 
• Severe Cardiac Arrhythmias: nicergoline might be contraindicated in individuals with severe cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), as it could potentially exacerbate the condition. 
• Uncontrolled Hypertension: nicergoline use might be contraindicated in individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension) due to its potential cardiovascular effects. 
• Cerebral Hemorrhage: Individuals with a history of cerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain) might have an increased risk of bleeding associated with nicergoline’s vasodilatory effects. 
• Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of nicergoline during pregnancy and lactation might not be well established. Its use during these periods should be carefully considered and guided by a healthcare professional’s assessment of the risks and benefits.

Caution: 

• Cardiovascular Conditions: nicergoline can affect blood pressure and heart rate due to its vasodilatory effects. Individuals with hypertension, coronary artery disease, or arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), should use nicergoline with caution and under medical supervision. 
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: It is recommended while taking nicergoline, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or other cardiovascular conditions. 
• Bleeding Risk: Due to its vasodilatory effects, nicergoline might increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals with a history of bleeding disorders or those taking medications that affect blood clotting. Caution is advised, especially if undergoing surgery or dental procedures. 
• Liver and Kidney Function: nicergoline is metabolized in the liver, and its elimination might be affected by kidney function. Individuals with impaired liver or kidney function should use nicergoline with caution and might require dose adjustments.

Comorbidities: 

• Cerebrovascular Disorders: nicergoline is sometimes prescribed for individuals who have suffered from cerebrovascular disorders, such as ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). These conditions involve reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to blood clots or narrowed blood vessels. 
• Peripheral Vascular Disease: Peripheral vascular disease involves narrowing of blood vessels outside the heart and brain, usually affecting the legs and arms. nicergoline’s vasodilatory effects can help improve blood flow to these areas, potentially alleviating symptoms like pain, cramping, and numbness. 
• Vertigo and Tinnitus: Conditions like vertigo (dizziness) and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) are thought to be related to disturb blood flow in the inner ear. nicergoline might be used to address these symptoms by enhancing circulation to the affected areas. 
• Age-Related Cognitive Decline: Some studies have explored nicergoline’s potential role in improving cognitive function, particularly in individuals with age-related cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment. Poor blood flow to the brain is believed to contribute to cognitive impairment in some cases. 
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): AMD is a progressive eye condition that affects central vision. nicergoline’s potential to improve blood flow might make it relevant for addressing blood flow-related factors in AMD. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: pregnancy category: not assigned 

Lactation: excreted into human milk: unknown  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• <b>Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

nicergoline is a medication with vasodilatory properties that is used to enhance blood flow. It works by acting on blood vessels, causing them to widen or dilate. This vasodilation leads to an increase in blood flow through the vessels, improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues.

nicergoline’s mechanism involves its effects on various receptors, including alpha-adrenergic and serotonin receptors. By interacting with these receptors, nicergoline helps relax the smooth muscles of blood vessel walls, reducing their constriction. This property is particularly beneficial in conditions where blood flow is compromised, such as in cerebrovascular and peripheral vascular disorders. Additionally, nicergoline’s potential neuroprotective properties might contribute to its effects in certain neurological conditions.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Vasodilation: nicergoline’s primary pharmacodynamic effect is the dilation of blood vessels. It achieves this by interacting with various receptors in the vascular system, including alpha-adrenergic and serotonin receptors. By binding to these receptors, nicergoline helps relax the smooth muscles within blood vessel walls, reducing their constriction.  
• Improved Blood Flow: The vasodilatory effect of nicergoline results in enhanced blood flow through the arteries, veins, and capillaries. This increased blood flow is particularly beneficial in conditions where reduced circulation contributes to symptoms or complications, such as ischemic stroke, peripheral vascular disease, or conditions associated with compromised blood flow. 
• Microcirculation Enhancement: nicergoline’s vasodilatory action can also enhance microcirculation, which involves the flow of blood through the smallest blood vessels (capillaries) in various tissues. Improved microcirculation ensures that tissues receive an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients while facilitating waste removal. 
• Potential Neuroprotection: Some research suggests that nicergoline might have neuroprotective properties, related to its effects on blood flow and the brain. These properties might be relevant in conditions where there is a risk of neuronal damage due to reduced blood supply. 
• Cognitive Enhancement: In addition to its vascular effects, nicergoline has been investigated for its potential to enhance cognitive function, especially in individuals with age-related cognitive decline. The improved blood flow to the brain might contribute to cognitive benefits.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

nicergoline is administered orally, and its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is considered slow and incomplete. Food might influence its absorption rate. 

Distribution 

After absorption, nicergoline is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. Its vasodilatory effects are due to its interaction with receptors on blood vessel walls. 

Metabolism 

nicergoline’s metabolism and breakdown in the body are not well-documented. It is believed to undergo hepatic (liver) metabolism through various enzymatic processes, but specifics might vary. 

Elimination and excretion 

Information about the excretion of nicergoline is limited. It is likely that the metabolites or remnants of the drug are eliminated primarily through the liver and excreted in the urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Dosage: The dosage of nicergoline will be determined based on your individual condition, medical history, and response to treatment.  
• Consistency: To ensure consistent blood levels of the medication, try to take nicergoline at the same time each day. 
• Duration of Treatment: nicergoline will depend on the condition which is being treated and how you respond to the medication. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the duration of treatment. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: nicergoline 

Pronounced: (nye-SER-goh-leen)  

Why do we use nicergoline? 

• Cerebrovascular Disorders: nicergoline is sometimes prescribed to individuals who have experienced cerebrovascular disorders, such as ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). These conditions involve reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to blood clots or narrowed blood vessels. 
• Peripheral Vascular Disease: It refers to narrowing of blood vessels outside the heart and brain, typically affecting the legs and arms. nicergoline’s vasodilatory effects can help improve blood flow to these areas, potentially alleviating symptoms like pain, cramping, and numbness. 
• Vertigo and Tinnitus: Conditions like vertigo (dizziness) and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) are thought to disturbances in blood flow in the inner ear. nicergoline might be used to address these symptoms by enhancing circulation to the affected areas.