Betahistine for Meniere's disease

What is Meniere’s disease? Is a condition of the inner ear due to an abnormality in the fluid homeostasis that causes spontaneous episodes of vertigo, usually bringing on other symptoms such as nausea, tinnitus and a sense of fullness in the ear. In most cases, effects one ear and causes fluctuating hearing loss. Episodes of vertigo can occur without warning and can last up to 24 hours and can occur weeks to years apart. Meniere’s disease can occur at any age and is considered a chronic condition. Other than fluid buildup in the ear, there are no causes that are understood for Meniere’s disease No curative agents exist for Meniere’s disease. However, there are various treatments that can help relieve symptoms and reduce long-term effects. Medications may include diuretics to reduce fluid accumulation in the ear for long-term use and motion sickness medications and anti-nausea medications to lessen the severity of attacks when they do occur.

Betahistine is prescribed to alleviate vertigo symptoms of Meniere’s disease. It is a histamine-like medication that has shown efficacy in treating vertigo symptoms and does not carry other histamine effects such as drowsiness. Its efficacy has been studied in many clinical trials and is commonly been prescribed. Betahistine is taken as a tablet three times day and taken as long-term treatment. It is not recommended in patients with any abdominal issues such as peptic ulcer disease because it can cause stomach upset/nausea. 

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. Meniere’s disease [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menieres-disease/basics/definition/con-20028251
2. Tighilet B, et al. Betahistine in the treatment on meniere’s disease. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2007 Aug; 3(4): 429-440.