Vertinor 16 Tablet

Generic Name: Betahistine Dihydrochloride

Indications:

• Ménière's disease and Ménière-like syndromes, characterized by:

  • Vertigo (dizziness)

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

  • Hearing loss

  • Nausea and vomiting

Pharmacology:

• Vertinor is a histamine analog. It improves blood flow in the inner ear, reducing pressure on the membranous labyrinth and alleviating symptoms.

• Betahistine acts as a histamine H1-receptor agonist, stimulating H1-receptors in the inner ear, causing vasodilation, increasing blood vessel permeability, and reducing endolymphatic pressure.

• It also reduces asymmetrical functioning of sensory vestibular organs and increases vestibulocochlear blood flow.

• Additionally, it acts as a histamine H3-receptor antagonist, increasing histamine turnover from postsynaptic histaminergic nerve receptors, subsequently increasing H1-agonist activity.

• H3-receptor antagonism elevates neurotransmitter levels, including serotonin, in the brainstem, inhibiting vestibular nuclei activity, restoring balance, and decreasing vertigo symptoms.

Dosage & Administration:

• Adults:

  • Initial oral treatment: 8 to 16 mg three times daily, preferably with meals.

  • Maintenance dose: Generally in the range of 24-48 mg daily.

  • Daily dose should not exceed 48 mg.

  • Dosage can be adjusted to suit individual patient needs.

  • Improvement may be observed only after a couple of weeks of treatment.

• There is limited data in the elderly, and betahistine should be used with caution in this population.

• Children and adolescents: Betahistine tablets are not recommended for use in children and adolescents below age 18 due to a lack of safety and efficacy data.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to the active substance.

• Pheochromocytoma.

Side Effects:

• Generally well-tolerated.

• Commonly reported side effects:

  • Gastrointestinal disturbances

  • Headache

  • Rashes

  • Pruritus

Pregnancy & Lactation:

• Pregnancy: The safety of betahistine in human pregnancy has not been completely established. A careful assessment of potential benefits should be made before prescribing betahistine during pregnancy.

• Lactation: Betahistine is excreted in breast milk. Toxicity to the neonate at these concentrations is not known.

Remember: This information is intended for general knowledge and understanding only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns and before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.