Betahistine Mesylate: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Betahistine Mesylate

Rx Only

Therapeutic ClassHistamine Analog / Vestibular Suppressant

Common Dose8–16 mg 3 times daily

Max / 24h48 mg

PregnancyCategory C

Indications ▼

Vertigo and balance disorders

Ménière's disease

Tinnitus associated with vestibular dysfunction

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Betahistine acts as a histamine H1 receptor agonist and H3 receptor antagonist, improving blood flow in the inner ear, reducing endolymphatic pressure and vestibular symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics: Well absorbed orally, peak plasma levels in 1–2 hours; extensively metabolized in the liver; eliminated in urine mainly as metabolites; half-life ~3–4 hours.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Patient Category	Recommended Dose	Max / 24h
Adults	8–16 mg 3 times daily	48 mg
Elderly	Start at 8 mg 3 times daily; adjust as needed	48 mg
Children	Use only if prescribed; safety not well established	As per physician

Side Effects ▼

Common: Headache, nausea, mild gastrointestinal upset

Occasional: Dizziness, skin rash, hypotension

Rare: Severe allergic reaction, tachycardia

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to betahistine or any excipient

Pheochromocytoma

Severe peptic ulcer or active gastrointestinal bleeding

Drug Interaction ▼

Antihypertensives: may potentiate hypotensive effect

MAO inhibitors: caution due to possible additive effects

Other vestibular suppressants: additive sedation

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Use only if clearly needed; risk not well established

Excretion in breast milk unknown; use with caution

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Vertigo Relief: Betahistine reduces frequency and severity of vertigo attacks in Ménière's disease patients.

Improved Vestibular Function: Enhances microcirculation in the inner ear, reducing endolymphatic pressure.

Tinnitus Management: Clinical trials show variable benefit in reducing tinnitus intensity.

Safety Profile: Generally well tolerated; headache and mild GI upset are most common.

Current Research Focus: Long-term efficacy in chronic Ménière’s disease and combination therapy with vestibular rehabilitation.

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C; protect from light & moisture

Keep out of reach of children

Patient Counseling Points ▼

How to take: Take with meals for better tolerance

Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered; do not double dose

Possible side effects: Headache, nausea, mild GI upset

Monitor: Blood pressure and vestibular symptoms; report severe dizziness or rash

Drug interactions: Inform doctor if using antihypertensives or MAO inhibitors

Lifestyle advice: Avoid alcohol or sedatives that may worsen dizziness

Pregnancy and safety: Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by physician

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

Serc Vertigo

Global / International Brands:

Serc Betaserc

Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Vestibular Suppressants • Conditions: Vertigo & Ménière’s Disease • Pathway: Inner Ear Blood Flow & Endolymphatic Pressure • Clinical Evidence & Trials