Betahistine
Information about Betahistine
Betahistine uses
Betahistine is used for vertigo and Meniere's disease. It helps to reduce the episodes of vertigo associated with Meniere's disease.
How betahistine works
Betahistine is a histamine analog. It works by improving blood flow in the inner ear which reduces the pressure of excess fluid in the inner ear. Excess fluid can send signals to the brain causing nausea, dizziness or spinning sensations (symptoms of Ménière's disease). Betahistine additionally dampens down the nerve signals sent from the inner ear to the brain. This relieves the symptoms of Ménière's disease.
Common side effects of betahistine
Headache, Nausea, Indigestion
Content Details
Last updated on:
06 Aug 2019 | 04:41 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Betahistine
- You have been prescribed Betahistine to relieve vertigo (dizziness), hearing problems and tinnitus (noise in the ear) associated with Meniere's disease.
- It can only decrease the number and severity of attacks but may not completely stop them.
- Taking it with food can help reduce stomach problems.
- Take it at the same time each day to maintain a steady amount of the medicine in your body.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of peptic ulcer, asthma, or low blood pressure.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions for Betahistine
Betahistine
Q. Does Betahistine use tend to increase weight?
No, there are no reports which suggest that using Betahistine causes weight gain. On the other hand Betahistine use may cause weight loss due to dyspepsia (indigestion).
Q. Can the use of Betahistine affect my blood pressure?
No, change in blood pressure is not very common with the use of Betahistine. In rare cases, it may lower blood pressure and may make you feel dizzy for a while, especially when you get up after lying down. If you experience any such symptoms, inform your doctor.
Q. What is Meniere’s disease? What are the symptoms of Meniere’s disease? Does it go away?
Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the balance and hearing organs in the inner ear. The symptoms include vertigo, fluctuations in hearing, tinnitus (ringing of the ears), and pressure in the ears. Along with that, one may experience dizziness which in turn may cause nausea and vomiting. The treatment for Meniere's disease depends on various factors. Hence, an open discussion with the doctor can help to determine the best treatment strategy in your personal case.
Q. What are the triggers for Meniere’s disease?
Meniere’s disease can be triggered by conditions such as stress, overwork, fatigue, emotional distress, additional illnesses, and pressure changes. Along with that, certain foods and high consumption of salt in diet can also trigger Meniere's disease.
Q. Is stress a reason for vertigo?
Mental stress can trigger vertigo. It can make many forms of vertigo worse, but will not, by itself, produce vertigo.
Q. Which food can trigger Meniere’s disease?
Foods with high sodium content may trigger Meniere’s disease. Also, dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol may also trigger Meniere’s disease. A 2-gram/day low-salt diet helps in the control of vertigo in Meniere’s disease.
Q. What are the causes of vertigo?
Vertigo may be caused by either a sudden drop in blood pressure or being dehydrated. Many people feel lightheaded if they get up too quickly from sitting or lying down. Along with that, motion sickness, certain medicines, and problems with your inner ear (Meniere’s disease, acoustic neuroma) may cause vertigo. It is important to know that sometimes vertigo can be a symptom of other disorders (Multiple sclerosis, following head trauma).