intrathecal nicardipine

Intrathecal nicardipine is a formulation of the L-type calcium channel blocker nicardipine hydrochloride being investigated by the University of Florida for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm, a common and severe complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). By administering the drug directly into the cerebrospinal fluid via an external ventricular drain or lumbar drain, clinicians aim to achieve high local concentrations in the subarachnoid space to dilate constricted cerebral arteries while avoiding the systemic hypotension that often limits the dose of intravenous calcium channel blockers. Nicardipine works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to muscle relaxation and vasodilation.

Brand names

Cardene

Other names

intraventricular nicardipinenicardipine hydrochloride