Review Drug

Brand name Serc

Used in the following combined preparations None

GENERAL INFORMATION

Betahistine, a drug that resembles the naturally occurring substance histamine in some of its effects, was introduced in the 1970s as a treatment for Meniere’s disease , which is caused by the pressure of excess fluid in the inner ear.

Taken regularly, betahistine reduces both the frequency and the severity of the
nausea and vertigo attacks that characterize this condition. It is also effective in treating tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Betahistine is thought to work by reducing pressure in the inner ear, possibly by improving blood flow in
the small blood vessels. Drug treatment, however, is not successful in all cases; surgery may be needed.

QUICK REFERENCE

Drug group Drug for Meniere’s disease

Overdose danger rating High

Dependence rating Low

Prescription needed Yes

Available as generic No

INFORMATION FOR USERS

Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking
with your doctor.

How taken

Tablets.

Frequency and timing of doses

3x daily after food.

Adult dosage range

24-48mg daily.

Onset of effect

Within 1 hour.

Duration of action

6-12 hours.

Diet advice

None.

Storage

Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.

Missed dose

Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a
single dose now and skip the next.

Stopping the drug

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.

OVERDOSE ACTION

Seek immediate medical advice in all cases. Large overdoses may cause collapse
requiring emergency action.

See Drug poisoning emergency guide.

POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS

Adverse effects from betahistine are minor and rarely cause problems.

SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Be sure to tell your doctor if:

You suffer from asthma. Ў You have a stomach ulcer. Ў You have phaeochromocytoma.
You are taking other medications.

Pregnancy

Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.

Breast-feeding

The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the
baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.

Infants and children

Not recommended.

Over 60

No special problems.

Driving and hazardous work

No special problems.

Alcohol

No special problems.

INTERACTIONS

None.

PROLONGED USE

No special problems.