What is betahistine used for?

Betahistine is primarily used to treat Meniere’s disease symptoms, including vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and hearing loss. This inner ear condition affects balance and hearing, causing debilitating episodes that betahistine helps manage. Betahistine is not approved in the United States, but it is approved in the United Kingdom and in several other countries. Betahistine is an oral tablet that is usually taken 3 times a day.

Betahistine for Meniere's disease: How it helps

Betahistine can help relieve the following symptoms of Meniere's disease:

• Vertigo attacks (spinning sensations)
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Tinnitus (ear ringing or buzzing)
• Hearing loss
• Nausea and vomiting during episodes
• Ear fullness or pressure.

Who Can Take Betahistine?

Betahistine is typically prescribed for adults with:

• Diagnosed Meniere's disease
• Vestibular disorders causing vertigo
• Chronic dizziness of inner ear origin
• Recurrent balance problems.

How does betahistine work?

Betahistine is a potent histamine-3 (H3) receptor antagonist and may work as a vasodilator, although experts aren’t sure exactly how betahistine works to treat Meniere’s disease. Blocking H3 receptors increases histamine release and some research indicates histamine receptors regulate the function of nerves in the inner ear. Betahistine may also improve blood flow to the inner ear and reduce fluid build up.

Is betahistine available in the United States?

Betahistine is not FDA-approved in the US. Originally it was approved in the 1960s, but FDA approval was withdrawn in 1971 due to insufficient efficacy evidence. Compounding pharmacies may prepare betahistine with a prescription at an estimated cost of around $50 per month, although this varies by pharmacy. It is typically not covered by insurance policies and alternative treatments may be recommended by U.S. doctors.

Is betahistine available in the United Kingdom?

Yes, betahistine is approved and widely prescribed in the UK for Meniere's disease.

Betahistine vs Other Vertigo Medications

How betahistine compares to alternatives:

• Less sedating than promethazine or meclizine
• Can be taken long-term unlike some vestibular suppressants
• Fewer drug interactions compared to prescription alternatives
• May lessen how bad vertigo attacks are and how long they last. i

Betahistine brand names worldwide

Most common brand names:

• Serc – UK, Australia, New Zealand
• Betaserc – Argentina, Colombia, Greece, Hong Kong, Italy, Thailand, Singapore
• Vertin – India, Turkey
• ACT betahistine – Canada.

Regional Brand Names:

• Balanse – India
• Be-Stedy – Oman
• Cyathus/Cyathus Exquirere – Bulgaria, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia
• Histine – Egypt
• Novertin – Paraguay.

Generic names include betahistin and betahistina.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does betahistine take to work?

Effects may be noticed within days to weeks, but full benefits often take 2-3 months of consistent use.

Is betahistine safe for long-term use?

Yes, betahistine has a good long-term safety profile with minimal serious side effects.

Can betahistine cure Meniere's disease?

No, betahistine manages symptoms but doesn't cure the underlying condition.

What if betahistine doesn't work for my vertigo?

Other treatments include dietary changes, diuretics, vestibular rehabilitation, or surgical options.

See also:

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