Below is a general overview of the medication often prescribed for vertigo. This information is not intended to replace specific medical advice from your GP, consultant, specialist or pharmacist, but to give a general description of the medication currently prescribed. You should always check with your medical professional for information and advice relating to your symptoms/condition and treatment.
Betahistine
Betahistine is a histamine analog and is a prescription only medication. It may also be referred to as betahistine hydrochloride and betahistine dihydrochloride. Betahistine is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat vertigo associated with Ménière’s in the UK. It works by acting on histamine receptors that are found in the walls of blood vessels in the inner ear. By activating these receptors, a process is started which is thought to reduce the pressure of the fluid that fills the labyrinth in the inner ear. This can help to relieve symptoms associated with Ménière’s. It is also known by the brand name Serc.
Prochlorperazine
Prochlorperazine is an anti-sickness medication which can help you to stop feeling nauseous and/or being sick. It acts to reduce the impact of the abnormal signals coming from the balance organ helping to relieve the symptoms of nausea, vomiting and vertigo associated with Ménière’s, labyrinthitis and other inner ear disorders. Prochlorperazine is available on prescription as a tablet, injection and buccal preparation. It is usually taken as needed, for a short time only, rather than on a regular basis. Prochlorperazine controls nausea and vomiting by blocking dopamine receptors and prevents them from sending messages to the vomiting centre in the brain that would otherwise cause nausea/vomiting. Also known by the brand names Stemetil and Buccastem (buccal preparation).
Cinnarizine
Cinnarizine is an antihistamine medication used to control travel and motion sickness as it stops you feeling or being sick (nausea/vomiting). Cinnarizine works by blocking the effects of histamine in your brain to reduce the symptoms of travel/motion sickness. It also helps to improve blood flow in the inner ear which helps reduce dizziness and sickness from vertigo, tinnitus and Meniere’s. Also known by the brand name Stugeron. Cinnarizine and dimenhydrinate (also antihistamine) may also be available on prescription as a combined preparation to treat vertigo.
Domperidone
Domperidone is a dopamine antagonist used to treat nausea and vomiting. It is also used to relieve stomach discomfort, bloating and reflux or heartburn by helping food to move faster through your digestive system to help prevent feelings of sickness, bloating and regurgitation. Domperidone is available as a suppository, tablet or oral suspension. It is also known by the brand name Motilium.
Where can I get further information?
- Please contact us for further information - email us: info@meandve.org.uk or give us a ring: 01306 876883 to chat with a member of our team
- See your GP for advice if you have any question or concerns about your condition and/or symptoms. They may refer to a specialist if neccessary
- Visit the NHS website: nhs.uk/medicines (external link)
- Become a member to receive regular information, resources and updates
- Donate to support our work and help us continue supporting people affected by vestibular conditions
The information in this resource is to give a general description of medication currently prescribed for vertigo symptoms. It is not intended to replace specific medical advice from your GP, consultant, specialist or pharmacist. Please speak to your health professional for specific advice for managing your condition and symptoms.Please note, Ménière's & Vestibular UK can provide general information, but is unable to provide specific medical advice. You should always check with your medical professional for information and advice relating to your symptoms/condition.