Vertistar Plus

Uses

Betahistine Mesilate dilates precapiilary sphincters, increasing the blood flow in the inner ear. It controls the permeability of capillaries in the inner ear, thereby removes endolymphatic hydrops. It also improves cerebral circulation, increasing blood flow in the internal carotid artery. Thus, Betahistine Mesylate is clinically useful for the relief of vertigo and dizziness.

Stimulation of gut motility in-

• Non-ulcer dyspepsia
• Oesophageal reflux, reflux oesophagitis and gastritis
• Diabetic gastroparesis
• Functional dyspepsia
• Speeding barium transit in follow through radiological studies

Prevention and symptomatic relief of acute nausea and vomiting from any cause including cytotoxic therapy, radiotherapy and antiparkinsonism therapy.

In the prophylactic treatment of migraine.

Vertistar Plus is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Menière's DiseaseDiabetic Gastroparesis, Dyspepsia, Erosive Esophagitis, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, Non-erosive Reflux Esophagitis Disease (NERD), Upper gastrointestinal motility disorders

How Vertistar Plus works

Vertigo is a disturbing sensation of movement caused by dysfunction of the labyrinth (inner ear), vestibular nerve, cerebellum, brainstem, or Central Nervous System (CNS). Vestibular forms of vertigo are often accompanied by auditory dysfunctions such as hyperacusis, hearing loss, and tinnitus. In most cases, adaptive mechanisms of the CNS lead to functional recovery after episodes of vertigo, however, syndromes such as Ménière's disease tend to cause the recurrence of vertigo symptoms. This significantly impacts the quality of life and the ability to carry out daily activities.

H1-receptor activity

The mechanism of action of betahistine is multifactorial. Ménière's disease is thought to result from a disruption of endolymphatic fluid homeostasis in the ear. Betahistine mainly acts as a histamine H1-receptor agonist. The stimulation of H1-receptors in the inner ear causes a vasodilatory effect leading to increased permeability of blood vessels and a reduction in endolymphatic pressure; this action prevents the rupture of the labyrinth, which can contribute to the hearing loss associated with Ménière's disease. Betahistine is also purported to act by reducing the asymmetrical functioning of sensory vestibular organs and increasing vestibulocochlear blood flow, relieving symptoms of vertigo.

H3-receptor activity

In addition to the above mechanisms, betahistine also acts as a histamine H3-receptor antagonist, increasing the turnover of histamine from postsynaptic histaminergic nerve receptors, subsequently leading to an increase in H1-agonist activity. H3-receptor antagonism elevates levels of neurotransmitters including serotonin in the brainstem, inhibiting the activity of vestibular nuclei, thus restoring proper balance and decreasing vertigo symptoms.

Domperidone acts as a gastrointestinal emptying (delayed) adjunct and peristaltic stimulant. The gastroprokinetic properties of domperidone are related to its peripheral dopamine receptor blocking properties. Domperidone facilitates gastric emptying and decreases small bowel transit time by increasing esophageal and gastric peristalsis and by lowering esophageal sphincter pressure. Antiemetic: The antiemetic properties of domperidone are related to its dopamine receptor blocking activity at both the chemoreceptor trigger zone and at the gastric level. It has strong affinities for the D2 and D3 dopamine receptors, which are found in the chemoreceptor trigger zone, located just outside the blood brain barrier, which - among others - regulates nausea and vomiting

Dosage

Vertistar Plus dosage

Usually for adults, administer orally 6 mg to 12 mg three times per day after meals. The dose may be adjusted according to the age of patient and severity of symptoms.

Adults: 10 - 20 mg every 4 - 8 hours daily

Children: 0.2 - 0.4 mg/kg every 4 - 8 hours daily.

Domperidone tablet and suspension should be taken 15 - 30 minutes before a meal. For acute nausea and vomiting, maximum period of treatment is 12 weeks.

Side Effects

Nausea or vomiting may rarely occur. Hypersensitivity reactions, such as skin rash, may rarely occur.

Domperidone may produce hyperprolactinemia which may cause galactorrhea & breast enlargement, soreness and reduced libido. It may rarely cause dry mouth, thirst, headache, nervousness, drowsiness, diarrhea, skin rash and itching.

Toxicity

Symptoms of an overdose with betahistine (< 640 mg) include dry mouth, nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, and somnolence. Serious complications such as convulsions, pulmonary or cardiac effects may occur with higher doses (> 640 mg), especially during intentional overdoses and combination with other drugs. In the case of an overdose with betahistine, provide supportive therapy, and contact the local poison control center for further management.

Side effects include galactorrhea, gynecomastia, or menstrual irregularities.

Precaution

Patients with a history of digestive ulcer or an active digestive ulcer, Patients with bronchial asthma, Patients with pheochromocytoma.

Domperidone should be used with absolute caution in case of children because there may be an increased risk of extra-pyramidal reactions in young children because of an incompletely developed blood brain barrier.

Interaction

Domperidone may reduce the hypoprolactinaemic effect of bromocriptine. Anti-muscarinics and opioid analgesics may antagonize the action of Domperidone on gastrointestinal function.

Volume of Distribution

In a pharmacokinetic study of rats, betahistine was found to be distributed throughout the body. Human data for betahistine's volume of distribution is not readily available.

Elimination Route

When given orally, betahistine is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. In the fasted state, Cmax is achieved within 1 hour of administration; in the fed state, Cmax is delayed, but the total drug absorption is similar. Food, therefore, has little effect on the absorption of betahistine.

Half Life

The half-life of betahistine is 3-4 hours.

7 hours

Elimination Route

Betahistine is mainly excreted in the urine; with approximately 85-91% being detected in urine samples within 24 hours of administration.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use

Safety of Betahistine during pregnancy has not been established. This drug should be administered to pregnant patients or women suspected of being pregnant, only if the expected therapeutic benefit is thought to outweigh any possible risk.

Use in pregnancy: The safety of this drug has not been established for pregnant women. So it is not recommended during pregnancy.

Use in lactation: Domperidone may precipitate galactorrhea and improve postnatal lactation, which is secreted in breast milk but in very small quantities insufficient to be considered harmful.

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to betahistine mesylate, pheochromocytoma, peptic ulcer, acute bronchial asthma.

Domperidone is contraindicated to the patients who have hypersensitivity to this drug and in case of neonates.

Acute Overdose

Overdose has been reported primarily in infants and children. Symptoms of overdosage may include disorientation, somnolence and extrapyramidal reactions. There is no specific antidote to domperidone, but in the event of overdose, the administration of activated charcoal may be useful. Anticholinergics, antiparkinson drugs may be useful in controlling extrapyramidal reactions. The patient should be observed closely and supportive measures employed.

Storage Condition

Store in cool and dry place. Protect from light & moisture.

Store in a cool dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Innovators Monograph

You find simplified version here Vertistar Plus