Betahistine

Uses

What is Serc® (betahistine) used for?

Betahistine is commonly used as the treatment of Ménière’s syndrome, a condition caused by the pressure of excess fluid in the inner ear.

How should I take betahistine?

The tablets should be swallowed whole with a sufficient quantity of liquid (e.g. one glass of water). Take the tablet with or after a meal.

How do I store betahistine?

Betahistine is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store Serc® in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of betahistine that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush betahistine down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using betahistine?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
• You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.
• You have allergy with any of active or inactive ingredients of betahistine or other medications.
• You have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There isn’t enough information about the safety of using betahistine during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking betahistine.

Side effects

What side effects can occur from betahistine?

Some side effects may occur when using this drug, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dyspepsia
• Abdominal pain
• Flatulence
• Headache
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure that occur when you stand up from a sitting or lying position)
• Allergy

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Serc® (betahistine)?

Serc® may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Products that may interact with this drug, such as:

• Moclobemide
• Selegiline
• Isocarboxazid
• Phenelzine
• Dimenhydrinate
• Diphenhydramine
• Cinnarizine
• Cetirizine and others

Does food or alcohol interact with Serc® (betahistine)?

Betahistine may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with betahistine?

Betahistine may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

These health conditions are:

• Pheochromocytoma (a tumor-associated with the adrenal gland which causes high blood pressure)
• A stomach or intestinal ulcer
• Asthma
• Porphyria

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Serc® (betahistine).

What is the dose of Serc® (betahistine) for an adult?

24-48 mg per day in divided doses. Either: one to two 8 mg tablets, three times a day; half or one 16 mg tablet, three times a day; or one 24-mg tablet, twice a day.

What is the dose of Serc® (betahistine) for a child?

The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using it. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is betahistine available?

Serc®  is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablet, oral: 8mg, 16mg, 24mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of betahistine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.