Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

[Janie03]

Can anyone help? After a second visit to my doctor I have been prescribed betahistine dihydrochloride 16mg 3 times a day for BPPV. I have had this for two weeks now but no change. Been taking the tablets for 3 days. Does anyone know if and how long they take to work?

I’m so fed up now and need to get back to work but told not to drive yet.

Thanks everyone

[EmWakie]

I took Betahistine for years so it’s hard to remember, but I’m sure it took a few weeks to kick in properly. But persevere with them because they did help a lot x

[Janie03 in reply to EmWakie]

Ok. Thank you so much for replying x

[wobblybee]

I’ve also been diagnosed with BPPV. I’ve never been prescribed medication, but I’ve had several sessions with a NeuroPhysiotherapist for the Epley Manouvre. This Manouvre often gives good results. 🙂 xB

[Hidden]

Hi It took around a week or a bit longer for it to kick in enough that I could function again. Once they started working, it was a godsend, so I agree with EmWakie, do give them a bit longer before you expect results.

[Janie03 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for answering my query. Can I just ask if you had to use the whole pack and did your doctor want to see you again? x

[Hidden in reply to Janie03]

I’ve actually been taking them for almost a year now. 16mg x 3 per day. I was originally given a 2 week prescription. When that ended, the intense vertigo returned quickly, so I was put back on a and it took another week to 10 days until it began to settle down again. Having said all that, my situation is slightly different in that BPPV was ruled out and Meniere’s diagnosed. It’s my understanding that there are exercises that work for many people suffering from BPPV. Never do these in your own though without seeing a doctor or physiotherapist to guide you and make sure you do them correctly.

I hope you find relief soon. It’s a horrible thing to deal with. The betahistine has also stopped the pulsatile tinnitus that was driving me up the wall for the two years prior to vertigo. I’m scared to ever go off it again!

[Janie03 in reply to Hidden]

What’s the difference between the two? I’ve got a months supply. Are you supposed to take the whole course? My doctor didn’t say. I now have a horrible pressure feeling on top of my head. Do you drive?

[Hidden in reply to Janie03]

The difference between BPPV and Meniere’s? They are two different things which can both cause vertigo.

In terms of your prescription, unless you’re told otherwise, or you have a side affect ( in which case see your doctor), you’re always supposed to take the full course of any medication you’re prescribed.

I didn’t drive while I was experiencing vertigo, but I am driving again now.

[Janie03 in reply to Hidden]

I’ve had labyrinthitis before but it wasn’t as bad as this. Apparently BPPV is something to do with the crystals in the ear

Thank you so much for your help. Really appreciate it xx

[Alon]

There are physiotheraists who are trained in BPPV treatment. This is the best option. Medications are not usually effective.