Top Vertigo Medicines You Need to Know

Vertigo is a medical condition characterized by dizziness, spinning, and loss of balance. It can be caused by various factors, including inner ear problems, migraines, or head injuries. Vertigo can be a debilitating condition that affects a person’s quality of life, making it difficult to carry out daily tasks. Fortunately, several medicines can provide relief from vertigo symptoms. This article will discuss the top vertigo medicines you need to know for effective management of vertigo.

1. Meclizine

Meclizine belongs to the class of antihistamines and is used to treat motion sickness, dizziness, and vertigo. It works by reducing the activity of histamine in the brain, which can cause dizziness and nausea. Meclizine is available over-the-counter and in prescription form, and the recommended dosage is 12.5 to 25 mg taken orally every 4-6 hours. It has few side effects, including dry mouth and drowsiness, making it a common choice for treating vertigo.

2. Betahistine

Betahistine is another medicine used to treat vertigo. It works by increasing blood flow to the inner ear, which can improve balance and reduce dizziness. Betahistine is available in tablet form, and the recommended dosage is 8-16 mg taken orally three times a day. Side effects of betahistine are generally mild, including headache, nausea, and indigestion.

3. Diazepam

Diazepam is a type of benzodiazepine that acts as a sedative and muscle relaxant. It is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders and muscle spasms but can also be used to manage vertigo symptoms. Diazepam relaxes the muscles and reduces anxiety, which can help relieve dizziness and spinning sensations. The recommended dosage for diazepam is 2-10 mg taken up to four times a day, but it should be used with caution due to its addictive properties. Diazepam also has side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.

4. Scopolamine

Scopolamine is a type of anticholinergic drug that works by affecting the chemical signals in the brain that cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It is commonly used to treat motion sickness, vertigo, and nausea caused by inner ear problems. Scopolamine is available as a skin patch, and the recommended dosage is one patch applied behind the ear. Side effects of scopolamine include dry mouth, blurred vision, and drowsiness.

5. Cinnarizine

Cinnarizine is a type of calcium channel blocker that is used to treat various types of vertigo and other conditions affecting the inner ear. It works by blocking the calcium channels in the blood vessels, resulting in improved blood flow to the inner ear. The recommended dosage for cinnarizine is 15-30 mg a day, taken in divided doses. Side effects of cinnarizine include drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation.

Conclusion:

Vertigo can be a debilitating condition that can severely affect a person’s quality of life. However, with the help of the top vertigo medicines discussed above, effective management of vertigo symptoms is possible. Meclizine, betahistine, diazepam, scopolamine, and cinnarizine are all effective medications that can provide relief from dizziness, spinning, and loss of balance associated with vertigo. Before taking any medicine, it’s essential to consult your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.