Vertigo and dizziness associated with the following diseases: Meniere’s disease, Meniere’s syndrome and Peripheral vertigo.
Histamine analog; Antiemetic
The mechanism of action of betahistine is multifactorial. Meniere's disease is thought to result from a disruption of endolymphatic fluid homeostasis in the ear. Betahistine mainly acts as a histamine H1-receptor agonist. The stimulation of H1-receptors in the inner ear causes a vasodilatory effect leading to increased permeability of blood vessels and a reduction in endolymphatic pressure; this action prevents the rupture of the labyrinth, which can contribute to the hearing loss associated with Ménière's disease. Betahistine is also purported to act by reducing the asymmetrical functioning of sensory vestibular organs and increasing vestibulocochlear blood flow, relieving symptoms of vertigo.
In addition to the above mechanisms, betahistine also acts as a histamine H3-receptor antagonist, increasing the turnover of histamine from postsynaptic histaminergic nerve receptors, subsequently leading to an increase in H1-agonist activity. H3-receptor antagonism elevates levels of neurotransmitters including serotonin in the brainstem, inhibiting the activity of vestibular nuclei, thus restoring proper balance and decreasing vertigo symptoms.
ORAL Menlere’s disease: Adult: Initially, 16 mg tid. Maintenance: 24-48 mg daily.
There are no proven cases of hazardous interactions. There is a case report of an interaction with ethanol and a compound containing pyrimethamine with dapsone and another of potentiation of betahistine with salbutamol. Betahistine is a histamine analogue, concurrent administration of H1 antagonists may cause a mutual attenuation of effect of the active agents.
Careful administration: History of digestive ulcer, bronchial asthma and pheochromocytoma.
Rash, pruritus, urticaria, dyspepsia. nausea, peptic ulcer disease, headache, dizziness, insomnia.
Safety of Betahistine Mesilate during pregnancy has not been established. This drug should be administered to pregnant patients or women suspected of being pregnant, only if the expected therapeutic benefit is thought to outweigh any possible risk.
The symptoms of betahistine overdose are nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, ataxia and seizures. More serious complications (convulsion, pulmonary or cardiac complications) were observed in cases of intentional overdose of betahistine especially in combination with other overdosed drugs. No specific antidote. Gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment are recommended.
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
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