Betahistine
Also known as: Serc
What it's for
Betahistine treats vertigo, dizziness, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) from Ménière's disease. It improves blood flow in the inner ear to reduce symptoms.
Comes as: Tablets
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 16mg 3 times daily.
- Take with or after food.
- It may take a few weeks to feel the full benefit.
- Continue taking even when you feel well to prevent attacks.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Feeling sick
- Indigestion or stomach upset
- Headache
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Tell your doctor if you have asthma - may trigger attacks in some people
- Tell your doctor if you have a stomach ulcer
- Take with food to reduce stomach upset
- Not suitable for children under 18
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have difficulty breathing or wheezing
- You have severe stomach pain
- You have signs of an allergic reaction
- Your symptoms get much worse
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.