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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 the blood flow in the inner ear which reduces the pressure of excess fluid there. 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 relieving the symptoms of Ménière's disease.

Common side effects of Betahistine

Headache, Nausea, Palpitations

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Swati Mishra

BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Lalit Kanodia

MBA, MD Pharmacology

Last updated

10 Apr 2025 | 05:32 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Betahistine

VertinAbbott

₹148 to ₹102510 variant(s)

VerbetAlbert David Ltd

₹87 to ₹2213 variant(s)

VertistarMankind Pharma Ltd

₹33 to ₹1615 variant(s)

BetavertSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd

₹34 to ₹3787 variant(s)

B-StilAbbott

₹99 to ₹2773 variant(s)

ZevertIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd

₹66 to ₹4219 variant(s)

MerislonEisai Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd

₹76 to ₹1352 variant(s)

BvertIcon Life Sciences

₹82 to ₹3426 variant(s)

VertipressCipla Ltd

₹75 to ₹2583 variant(s)

Betahist ForteGeno Pharmaceuticals Ltd

₹1271 variant(s)

Expert advice for Betahistine

You have been prescribed Betahistine to relieve vertigo (dizziness), hearing problems and tinnitus (noise in the ear) associated with Ménière'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 stomach 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.
You have been prescribed Betahistine to relieve vertigo (dizziness), hearing problems and tinnitus (noise in the ear) associated with Ménière'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 stomach ulcer, asthma, or low blood pressure.
Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions for Betahistine

Betahistine

Q. What is 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. Is Betahistine effective?

Betahistine is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Betahistine too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.

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 sudden drop in blood pressure. Along with that, certain foods such as dairy products, caffeine, alcohol and foods with high sodium content may trigger Meniere's disease. A 2-gram/day low-salt diet can help control vertigo in Meniere's disease.

Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Betahistine?

If you forget a dose of Betahistine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.

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. What are the causes of vertigo?

Vertigo may be caused either by a sudden drop in blood pressure or because of 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) as well.

Q. How long should Betahistine be taken?

Duration of treatment with Betahistine may vary from patient to patient. Some people respond rapidly to treatment while others may take some time. Hence, it is advised to take your tablets regularly and wait for the results patiently. Consult the doctor if not sure.

Q. What are the common side effects of Betahistine?

Betahistine can cause mild stomach problems such as vomiting, stomach pain, stomach swelling (abdominal distension), and bloating. You can reduce the chances of getting these side effects by taking Betahistine with food. However, the absorption of Betahistine may get reduced when taken with food.