Bteen
Generic Name
Betahistine Dihydrochloride
Manufacturer
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| bteen 20 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | ৳ 150.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Betahistine is a drug used to treat symptoms of Meniere's disease, such as vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. It works by improving blood flow in the inner ear.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 8 mg to 16 mg three times daily, or 24 mg twice daily, preferably with food. Maintenance dose: Usually 24-48 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Max 48 mg/day.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required. However, caution is advised and dose should be individualized based on clinical response and tolerability.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment recommendations are available, but caution is advised in patients with severe renal impairment. Start with a lower dose and monitor carefully.
How to Take
Tablets should be swallowed whole, preferably with meals, to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
Mechanism of Action
Betahistine acts as a partial histamine H1-receptor agonist and a potent histamine H3-receptor antagonist. This action is thought to increase histamine turnover and facilitate histamine release from presynaptic neurons, primarily in the inner ear. It improves microcirculation in the labyrinth, reduces endolymphatic pressure, and inhibits vestibular nuclei activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Symptomatic relief may take days to weeks, with optimal effects often observed after several weeks of continuous treatment.
Excretion
Primarily excreted as metabolites, mainly 2-PAA, in the urine within 24 hours.
Half life
The elimination half-life of the primary metabolite (2-pyridylacetic acid) is approximately 3-4 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations of the active metabolite (2-pyridylacetic acid) are reached within 1 hour after an oral dose.
Metabolism
Rapidly and extensively metabolized to 2-pyridylacetic acid (2-PAA) via first-pass metabolism. Betahistine itself is virtually undetectable in plasma.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to betahistine or any of its components
- Phaeochromocytoma (a tumor of the adrenal gland)
Drug Interactions
Antihistamines
May theoretically reduce the effect of betahistine due to their opposing histamine effects.
Beta-2 agonists
Exercise caution when co-administering with beta-2 agonists as betahistine is a histamine analogue.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
MAOIs may inhibit the metabolism of betahistine, potentially leading to increased exposure.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, somnolence, and abdominal pain. In more severe cases (e.g., after very large doses), convulsions, pulmonary or cardiac complications may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; no specific antidote is known.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown teratogenic effects, but human data are limited. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Not recommended during breastfeeding due to lack of data on excretion in human milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, depending on specific manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of betahistine in the management of Meniere's disease and vestibular vertigo. Ongoing research explores its role in other conditions and new formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required for betahistine therapy. Clinical monitoring of symptoms and side effects is usually sufficient.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients regarding the relatively slow onset of action and the importance of continuous treatment for optimal results.
- Exercise caution in patients with a history of bronchial asthma or peptic ulcer disease; monitor for exacerbation.
- Betahistine is not indicated for motion sickness.
- Review patient's medication list for potential interactions, especially with antihistamines and MAOIs.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the tablets with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if your symptoms improve.
- Inform your doctor if you have asthma, peptic ulcers, or a history of either condition.
- Betahistine may take some time to show its full effect; continue treatment as prescribed.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Betahistine is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, Meniere's disease itself can cause dizziness, vertigo, and impaired vision, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Exercise caution.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid sudden head movements that may trigger vertigo episodes.
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, which can exacerbate Meniere's symptoms.
- Manage stress and ensure adequate rest.
- Maintain a low-sodium diet if advised by your doctor.
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Global Brand Names
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