Verhistine, Uses, Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions
Verhistine is a brand of Betahistine dihydrochloride, a medication that is commonly used to treat Meniere’s disease an inner ear problem also known as vertigo. This condition causes a feeling of dizziness and loss of balance. Most of the time, Meniere’s disease affects only one ear. Meniere’s disease can happen at any age. But it usually starts between the ages of 40 to 60.
If you suffer from vertigo, you may experience symptoms such as a spinning sensation, nausea, and loss of balance. These symptoms can be very disruptive to your daily life and can make it difficult to perform normal activities such as driving, working, or even walking. Fortunately, Verhistine can help to alleviate these symptoms and make it easier to manage your vertigo.
How it works
This medication is a histamine analog that works by increasing blood flow to the inner ear, which helps to reduce the symptoms of vertigo. However, the exact mechanism of action of Verhistine is not fully understood, but it is believed to work in two ways.
Firstly, Verhistine is a histamine analog that acts as a partial agonist at H1 receptors and a full agonist at H3 receptors. This means that it has a similar chemical structure to histamine, a naturally occurring substance in the body that is involved in regulating blood flow and inflammation. By acting on H1 and H3 receptors in the inner ear, Verhistine can increase blood flow to the area and improve the balance of neurotransmitters involved in the perception of movement.
Secondly, Verhistine may also act as a vestibular compensation agent. This means that it can help the brain to adapt to changes in the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. By promoting vestibular compensation, Verhistine can reduce the symptoms of vertigo and improve overall balance and stability.
Overall, the precise mechanism of action of Verhistine is not fully understood, but it is thought to work by increasing blood flow to the inner ear and promoting vestibular compensation. By doing so, it can help to reduce the symptoms of vertigo and improve overall quality of life for those who suffer from this condition.
How to take this medication
When taking Verhistine, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. This medication is typically taken two to three times per day with food, and the recommended dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on your individual condition and response to the medication.
There is limited information available on the use of Verhistine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
In animal studies, betahistine has not shown any adverse effects on pregnancy, fetal development, or lactation. However, animal studies may not always accurately predict human response.
There is limited data on the use of betahistine during pregnancy in humans. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using betahistine during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Similarly, there is insufficient information about the safety of betahistine during breastfeeding. It is not known whether betahistine is excreted in human breast milk or if it affects the nursing infant. Therefore, it is recommended to exercise caution while using betahistine during breastfeeding.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and considering taking betahistine, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before using this medication. Your healthcare provider can help weigh the potential risks and benefits and determine if it is safe for you and your baby.
Side Effects
Verhistine can cause side effects in some people. Common side effects of Verhistine include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Abdominal pain
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Drowsiness
If you experience any of these side effects, they are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if they persist or become severe, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Less common side effects of Verhistine include:
- Allergic reactions such as hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing
- Flushing of the skin
- Low blood pressure
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Visual disturbances
If you experience any of these less common side effects, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Interactions
Verhistine can interact with other medications and substances, so it’s important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbs you are taking before starting treatment with Verhistine. Some of the medications that can interact with Verhistine include:
1. Antihistamines: Verhistine may decrease the effectiveness of antihistamines and increase their side effects.
2. Antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications: Verhistine may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with these medications.
3. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Verhistine may interact with MAOIs and cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.
4. Alcohol: Verhistine can increase the sedative effects of alcohol.
5. Other medications used to treat vertigo: Combining Verhistine with other medications used to treat vertigo may increase the risk of side effects.
It’s important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, and there may be other medications or substances that can interact with Verhistine. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications or supplements while taking Verhistine.
Storage
This medication should be stored at room temperature, between 15-30°C (59-86°F), in a tightly closed container and away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Do not use this medication if it has expired or if the packaging is damaged. Always check the label for specific storage instructions provided by the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
