Serc

Brand Name:Serc

Prescription needed: Yes

What is this drug used for?

Betahistine is most commonly used to treat the symptoms of Ménière's disease and vertigo. It may also be used to treat the symptoms of tinnitus.

Betahistine works by improving the blood flow to the ear and decreasing the pressure inside the ear. It also decreases the severity of nausea and dizziness with vertigo attacks and decreases the ringing in the ears that people feel with tinnitus.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to betahistine. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

  • asthma
  • an ulcer in your stomach or intestines
  • problems with heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • pheochromocytoma (tumour of the adrenal gland)

What about possible side effects?

The most common side effects to this medication include:

  • headache
  • rash, itching, hives
  • diarrhea
  • stomach upset, indigestion, heartburn

This drug may cause other side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop a rash or any other unusual symptoms while taking this medicine.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications) as they may interact with another drug, increasing or decreasing effectiveness and safety of either or both. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of the following medications as he/she may need to make changes or check you more closely:

· antihistamines like diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, loratidine and others: betahistine may interfere with how well these medications can work to relieve the symptoms of allergies and hay fever.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your list of medications.

Other information:

Children: Not recommended.

Seniors: May use this drug as prescribed.

Pregnant women: Safety not established. Talk to your doctor.

Women who are nursing: This drug passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor about any possible adverse effects.

People who drive or operate machinery: No reason for concern.

Alcohol: No reason for concern. Always drink in moderation.

Overdose: You may experience adverse effects if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage. Call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: If you stop taking this drug, symptoms may recur. Talk to your doctor first.

If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within the next two hours, skip this dose and restart with the next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); always out of reach of children.

Dietary precautions: None.