Veserc 8 mg

Description

Indications
Veserc is used to treat Meniere’s disease and Meniere-like syndromes, conditions characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, progressive hearing loss, and often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Use as prescribed by a registered healthcare professional.

Description
Veserc is a histamine analogue developed following the successful use of histamine in patients with Meniere’s disease. It helps alleviate vertigo by enhancing circulation in the inner ear’s microvasculature. This improved blood flow reduces pressure on the membranous labyrinth, providing relief from the symptoms associated with Meniere’s disease.

Pharmacology
The action of betahistine is multifaceted. Meniere’s disease is believed to result from an imbalance of endolymphatic fluid in the ear. Betahistine primarily works as a histamine H1-receptor agonist. By stimulating these receptors in the inner ear, it causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing their permeability and lowering endolymphatic pressure. This prevents the rupture of the labyrinth, a potential cause of hearing loss in Meniere’s disease. Betahistine also helps to restore balance by reducing the asymmetrical function of the sensory vestibular organs and enhancing blood flow to the vestibulocochlear system, which reduces vertigo symptoms.

Additionally, betahistine functions as a histamine H3-receptor antagonist. This increases the turnover of histamine from postsynaptic histaminergic nerve receptors, which enhances H1-agonist activity. By elevating neurotransmitters like serotonin in the brainstem, it inhibits vestibular nuclei activity, restoring balance and reducing vertigo.

Dosage & Administration
Adults:

• Start with 8 to 16 mg three times a day, preferably with meals.
• Maintenance dose ranges from 24 to 48 mg daily.
• The maximum daily dose should not exceed 48 mg.
• Adjust the dosage based on individual patient needs. Improvement may take a few weeks of treatment.

There is insufficient data on the use of this medication in patients with hepatic or renal impairments, so caution is advised. The use of betahistine in the elderly should be done with care.

Children and Adolescents:
Betahistine is not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age due to a lack of safety and efficacy data.
Use as prescribed by a registered healthcare professional.

Interactions
No significant harmful interactions have been reported. However, there is a case of an interaction with ethanol, pyrimethamine, and dapsone. Concurrent use with H1 antagonists may reduce the effectiveness of betahistine.

Contraindications
Betahistine is contraindicated in patients with pheochromocytoma, as it may trigger the release of catecholamines from the tumor, causing severe hypertension. It is also contraindicated for individuals who are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients.

Side Effects
Veserc is generally well-tolerated. However, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues, headaches, rashes, or itching.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy:
The safety of betahistine during pregnancy has not been fully established. While animal studies show no teratogenic effects, it should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh potential risks.

Lactation:
Betahistine is excreted into breast milk in concentrations similar to plasma levels. Its effect on neonates is not known, so caution is advised when used by breastfeeding mothers.

Precautions & Warnings
Caution is necessary when using betahistine in patients with a history of peptic ulcers, as it may occasionally cause dyspepsia. It should also be used cautiously in individuals with bronchial asthma, urticaria, rashes, or allergic rhinitis, as it may exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, patients with severe hypotension should exercise care when using this medication.

Patients with rare hereditary issues such as galactose intolerance or glucose-galactose malabsorption should avoid this medication.

Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines
Although rare, some patients may experience drowsiness. If this occurs, it is advisable to avoid activities that require concentration, such as driving or operating machinery.

Overdose Effects
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, ataxia, and seizures. More serious complications such as convulsions and pulmonary or cardiac issues may occur when overdosed, especially when combined with other drugs. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment are recommended.

Therapeutic Class
Medications used in the treatment of Meniere’s disease.

Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.