BETAHISTINE

Ménière’s disease is a condition of the inner ear. It typically causes attacks of dizziness with a spinning sensation (vertigo), hearing loss and noises in the ear (tinnitus). The attacks can vary in severity, and in how often they occur. It is thought that a build-up of fluid in the inner ear causes the symptoms. Treatment can help to ease and prevent symptoms.

• Headache
• Mild gastric side effects
• Nausea
• Rash; itching and hives; and swelling of the face, tongue and mouth
• Tingling, numbness, burning sensations, shortness of breath and labored breathing

Precautions

Give with caution in pregnant and lactating women, and in patients with active or history of peptic ulcer disease, bronchial asthma, cardiovascular disease, and liver impairment.

Interactions
Diminished therapeutic effect w/ antihistamines. May decrease bronchodilator effects of β2 agonists (anti-asthma drugs). Increased serum concentrations with MAOIs. Food intake slows down absorption of betahistine.

Overdose symptoms include nausea, somnolence, abdominal pain, convulsion, pulmonary or cardiac complications. If overdose is suspected, bring the victim to the hospital immediately.

Available brands:

• Merislon (Eisai)
• Nuvert (Bell-Kenz Pharma)
• Overt (Cathay YSS)
• Serc (Abbott)
• Vert (InnoGen Pharmaceuticals)