From the FDA Drug Label
2.1 Recommended Dosage The recommended dosage is 25 mg to 100 mg daily administered orally, in divided doses, depending upon clinical response. The recommended Vertin (meclizine) dosage is 25 mg to 100 mg daily, administered orally in divided doses, depending on the clinical response 1.
- The dosage should be individualized to the patient's response.
- Meclizine should be taken as directed by the physician.
- The dosage may vary depending on the severity of the condition being treated 1 1.
From the Research
Vertin, also known as betahistine, is typically prescribed for vertigo and Meniere's disease at a dosage of 8-16 mg three times daily with meals, with the standard starting dose usually being 16 mg three times daily, which can be adjusted based on response 2. The treatment duration varies depending on symptom improvement, but often continues for several months. Betahistine works by improving blood flow in the inner ear and regulating vestibular nuclei activity, which helps reduce vertigo symptoms. Some key points to consider when prescribing Vertin include:
- The medication is generally well-tolerated, with mild side effects like headache or upset stomach possible.
- Patients with peptic ulcers, pheochromocytoma, or asthma should use caution or avoid this medication.
- For maximum effectiveness, take the medication consistently at scheduled times with food.
- If symptoms don't improve after 2-3 weeks of treatment, consult your healthcare provider for possible dosage adjustment or alternative treatment options. It's also important to note that exercise-based vestibular rehabilitation has been shown to be effective in adult patients with chronic dizziness, with benefits including improvement in the vertigo symptom scale, fall risk, balance, and emotional status 2. Some of the key exercises for vestibular rehabilitation include:
- Vestibular compensation exercises
- Vestibular adaptation exercises
- Substitution exercises
- Balance exercises with a reduced support base
- Head-eye movements with various body postures and activities
- Repeating the movements provoking vertigo
- Exposing patients gradually to various sensory and motor environments 3, 4.