Investigation of Betaserc in auditory and vestibular disturbances.

Vestibular vertigo is a primary symptom in neurootological clinical practice and is common among cerebrovascular diseases. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of betahistine dihydrochloride (Betaserc), 8 and 16 mg, on patients who were transport system workers with vascular auditory and vestibular disturbances. We examined 50 patients, 30 of whom were treated with 16-mg doses and 20 of whom received 8-mg doses of Betaserc. The mean age of the patients was 37+/-2.3 years. The following evaluative methods were used: questionnaire including detailed neurootological history; ear, nose, and throat and neurological examinations; tonal threshold audiometry; and examination of the vestibular system (spontaneous and provoked reactions). On the basis of the investigations carried out, we recommend 16 mg Betaserc three times daily in the acute phase. The medication is very well tolerated, has no sedative effect and is suitable for long-term treatment.