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betahistine

N07CA01

Forms & Strengths

Oral tablets: 8 mg
Oral tablets: 16 mg
Oral tablets: 24 mg

Adult Dosing

Initial dose: 8 to 16 mg orally three times daily
Maintenance dose: 24 to 48 mg daily divided into multiple doses
Taken preferably with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort

Pediatric Dosing

Safety and efficacy not established in patients under 18 years of age

Indications

Treatment of Meniere's disease characterized by vertigo, tinnitus, and progressive hearing loss
Symptomatic treatment of peripheral vertigo

Mechanism of Action

Acts as a weak agonist at histamine H1 receptors and a strong antagonist at histamine H3 receptors in the central and autonomic nervous systems
Promotes blood circulation in the stria vascularis of the inner ear
Facilitates vestibular compensation through central action

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to betahistine or any excipients
Pheochromocytoma (due to potential release of circulating catecholamines causing severe hypertension)

Adverse Reactions

Common: Nausea, dyspepsia, headache
Common: Gastrointestinal disturbances
Rare: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis, rash, pruritus, and urticaria

Drug Interactions

Antihistamines: Theoretical antagonism of betahistine efficacy when used concomitantly
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): May inhibit the metabolism of betahistine

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use