Betahistine in vertebrobasilar insufficiency

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI) frequently causes vestibular disorders.
• Vestibular dysfunction significantly impacts patient quality of life.
• Effective therapeutic options for VBI-related vestibular issues are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of betahistine dihydrochloride (Betaserc) in managing vestibular disorders associated with VBI.
• To assess the impact of Betaserc on oculomotor and postural control in VBI patients.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 300 patients (mean age 52.2 years) with VBI and vestibular disorders.
• Patients received Betaserc at 8 mg or 16 mg three times daily for 120-180 days.
• Videony stagmography and stabilometry were used to assess oculomotor reflexes and postural stability before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• Betaserc treatment led to the disappearance of pathological visuo-oculomotor reactions and cervical test abnormalities in most patients.
• Significant improvements were observed in smooth pursuit (59.9%) and saccadic eye movements (55.9%).
• Stabilometry showed reduced platform amplitude and head velocity, indicating improved postural control, with greater effects noted at the higher Betaserc dose.

Conclusions:

• Betahistine dihydrochloride (Betaserc) is a useful therapeutic agent for vestibular disorders in patients with vertebrobasilar insufficiency.
• A 4-6 month treatment course with Betaserc appears sufficient for significant clinical improvement.
• The drug likely enhances central compensation mechanisms for vestibular dysfunction.