Effect of betahistine dihydrochloride on induced vestibular nystagmus: a double blind study.

The effect of betahistine on vestibular nystagmus induced by means of a torsion swing was tested in 10 subjects. Each individual received, in a randomized double-blind study, 3 different single oral dosages of betahistine (8, 16 and 32 mg) on 3 different occasions. Electronystagmographic tracings were taken at different time-intervals after drug intake. At 3-4 hours after a dose of 8 mg betahistine the nystagmus duration was reduced by 35%, after 16 mg betahistine by 48% and after 32 mg betahistine by 59% (mean values). All these differences in dose-response are highly significant (P less than 0.0005). It can be concluded from these results, that a dose of 3 X 8 mg or 3 X 16 mg betahistine daily will be efficacious in maintenance treatment of vertigo, and a dose of 3 X 24 mg betahistine daily will have even more effect.