[Comparable efficacy between twice and three times daily for treatment of balance system disturbances].
In spite of detailed examinations it is impossible to find reasons for balance system disturbances in more than 25 per cent of patients. Therefore doctors have to treat symptoms but not the reasons for balance system disturbances. One of the most frequently administered medicine in treatment of both central and peripheral balance system disturbances is betahistine dihydrochloride (Betaserc). The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of Betaserc an balance system disturbances with reference to dosage.


METHODS
Patients were divided into two groups. The first group (Group I) was treated with Betaserc three times a day: 16 mg for minimum 4 weeks and 8 mg for minimum 8 weeks. The second group (Group II) was treated with Betaserc twice a day: 24 mg for maximum 4 weeks and next 12 mg for minimum 8 weeks. The data from interviews and additional examinations (videonystagmography and posturography) were considered.


RESULTS
The latter group more often showed smaller balance system disturbances and vertigo than the first group both after 4 and 12 weeks. After 12 weeks of treatment more patients from the second group reported "a complete disappearance" of the symptoms. A substantial improvement of results was observed in videonystagmography and posturography examinations.


CONCLUSIONS
The treatment with 24 mg for 4 weeks and 12 mg for 8 weeks twice daily was better tolerated and gave higher positive effects than the treatment three times a day with 16 mg for 4 weeks and 8 mg for 8 weeks.
Jurkiewicz
Dariusz
D
Wojskowy Instytut Medyczny w Warszawie, CSK MON, Klinika Otolaryngologiczna.
Kantor
Ireneusz
I
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001621:Betahistine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000187:drug effects*; D012678:Sensation Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*
D001621:Betahistine