Serc (Betahistine)

Serc (betahistine dihydrochloride) is an anti-vertigo medication used to treat symptoms of Ménière's disease, a condition that affects the inner ear. Betahistine works by improving blood flow in the inner ear, which may help reduce fluid pressure that causes vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing problems. This medication is a histamine analog and can help manage the spinning sensations, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and nausea caused by Ménière's disease.

Directions

Serc is an oral tablet that can be taken by mouth with meals to help reduce stomach upset. The usual total daily dose is 24–48 mg, split into 2 or 3 doses spaced evenly throughout the day. However, a doctor or healthcare provider may adjust the dosage based on a person's condition and response to treatment.

The tablets should be swallowed whole; do not crush or chew them. It can take several weeks to feel the full benefit, so keep taking Serc as prescribed unless a doctor or healthcare provider instructs otherwise.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in this drug is betahistine.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Serc should be used with care in people who have certain medical conditions. Because a small number of people with asthma have experienced breathing problems while taking Serc, extra caution should be used in anyone with asthma.
• People who have a peptic ulcer, or have had one in the past, may notice their stomach symptoms getting worse while taking Serc. Even though the medication doesn't increase stomach acid, it is not recommended for people who currently have an ulcer or a history of this condition.
• Serc has not been proven safe during pregnancy. Animal studies are limited, and it's not known whether the medication can harm an unborn baby. For this reason, Serc should only be used in pregnancy if the potential benefit is greater than the risk.
• I's also not known whether Serc passes into human breast milk, although it does appear in the milk of animals. Nursing parents and their healthcare providers should weigh the risks and benefits before using it.
• Serc is not recommended for children and teens under 18 years old, as safety and effectiveness data are lacking. Older adults may not need a different dose, but they may be more sensitive to medications overall, especially if they have reduced kidney or liver function or take many other drugs.
• In studies with healthy adults, Serc did not appear to affect driving ability. Still, Ménière’s disease itself can cause dizziness and balance problems, which may impair someone's ability to drive or operate machinery safely.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: The safety of Serc during pregnancy and lactation hasn't been established
• Children under 18 years old: This medication isn't approved for pediatric use
• Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause dangerous blood pressure changes
• Active peptic ulcer or history of peptic ulcers: Betahistine may irritate the stomach lining and worsen ulcer conditions
• Hypersensitivity or allergy: Any known allergic reaction to betahistine dihydrochloride or other ingredients in the tablets

Side Effects

Common side effects of Serc include:

• Nausea
• Indigestion (dyspepsia)
• Headache

These reactions were the most frequently reported in clinical trials and are generally mild. Some people may also experience mild stomach discomfort such as bloating or abdominal pain. These effects usually improve as your body adjusts, but you should speak with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or become bothersome.

More serious side effects are rare but have been reported in post-marketing use. These include allergic reactions such as rash, hives, or swelling of the face, as well as breathing difficulty or low blood pressure. Rare neurological reactions, such as confusion, drowsiness, tingling sensations, or seizures, have also been described. Seek medical attention right away if you experience severe dizziness, swelling, trouble breathing, or signs of a serious skin reaction.