Menaril(Betahistine)
Therapeutic Group: Drugs of Nervous System
Presentation
Menaril 8: Each tablet contains Betahistine Dihydrochloride BP 8 mg.
Menaril 16: Each tablet contains Betahistine Dihydrochloride BP 16 mg.
Description
Betahistine is a histamine analog that was developed following successful parenteral use of histamine in patients with Meniere’s Syndrome. Betahistine relieves vertigo symptoms by improving circulation in the microvasculature of the
the inner ear which leads to a pressure reduction on the membranous labyrinth and relieves the symptoms of Meniere’s disease.
Indications
Meniere’s disease and Meniere-like syndromes are characterized by attacks of vertigo, tinnitus and/or progressive loss of hearing, usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Dosage & Administration
The usual initial dose : 8 mg to 16 mg three time’s daily taken preferably with meals.
Maintenance dosage : Up to 48 mg daily have been recommended.
Betahistine is not recommended for use in children.
Side Effects
Betahistine is generally well tolerated and there is no known serious adverse effects. In some circumstances gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, rashes and pruritus have been reported.
Precautions
Caution should be exercised in patients with bronchial asthma and peptic ulceration.
Use in Pregnancy & Lactation
In Pregnancy
The safety of Betahistine in human pregnancy has not been completely established, although there is no known teratogenic effect in animals. A careful assessment of potential benefit should be made before prescribing Betahistine in pregnancy.
In Lactation
Betahistine is excreted in the breast milk of nursing mother in concentrations similar to those found in plasma. Toxicity to the neonate at these concentrations is not known.
Drug Interaction
There are no proven cases of hazardous interactions.
Though an antagonism between Betahistine and antihistamines could be expected on a theoretical basis, no such interactions have been reported.
Commercial Pack
Menaril 8: Each box contains 10 Alu-Alu blister strips of 10 tablets.
Menaril 16: Each box contains 5 Alu-Alu blister strips of 10 tablets.
