Betahistine Dihydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Betahistine Dihydrochloride
Other Names
- Betahistine HCl
Drug Class
- Histamine Analogue
Chemical Formula
C8H13ClN2
Molecular Weight
174.66 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as a histamine H3 receptor antagonist and a weak H1 receptor agonist
Indications
- Meniere's disease
- Vertigo
- Vestibular disorders
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral solution
Typical Dosage
- 16 to 48 mg daily in divided doses
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosage adjustment may be needed based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Allergic reactions
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to betahistine
- Pheochromocytoma
- Peptic ulcer disease
Pregnancy Category
- Category B - No proven risk in humans
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, use with caution
Drug Interactions
- Antihistamines
- MAO inhibitors
- Antihypertensive agents
Overdose Symptoms
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion
- Hypotension
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Well-distributed throughout the body
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in the urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with asthma
- Renal impairment
- Peptic ulcer disease
Warnings
- May cause dizziness or sedation, caution when operating machinery or driving
Others
- Not recommended in patients with bronchial asthma or a history of peptic ulcers.