What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Serc (Betahistine)
Also Known as Betaserc
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
SERC (betahistine) is a medication that can treat episodes of recurrent vertigo that are associated with Ménière’s disease.
People with Ménière’s disease have extra fluid that builds inside of their ear canals. Extra fluid interferes with the nerves in the inner ear that detect position, movement, and balance. People with Ménière’s disease have recurrent episodes of vertigo that may interfere with their daily lives.
SERC medication works by interacting with both histamine-1 and histamine-3 receptors on the surface of nerve cells of the ear. The interactions seem to decrease how much histamine is available to activate these nerve cells. SERC also increases blood flow to the inner ear and it slows down nerve signals in lateral and medial vestibular nuclei.
The FDA has not approved SERC for any indication in the United States. SERC is widely used in both Europe and Canada.
Directions
Take 24 mg to 48 mg by mouth in divided doses. SERC dosages include a 16 mg tablet and a 24 mg tablet.
Examples of different dosing may include:
- Twice daily dosing: 24 mg by mouth twice daily
- Three times daily dosing: 8 mg to 16 mg by mouth three times daily
Ingredients
The active ingredient in SERC is betahistine.
Fact Table
Formula
C8H12N2
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
100%
Legal status
US: RX Only
Chemical Name
Betahistine
Elimination half-life
3.5 hours
Dosage (Strength)
8mg (90 or 120 tablets), 16mg (60 or 120 tablets)
Pregnancy
Consult a doctor
Brands
Serc
Protein binding
Less than 5%
PubChem CID
2336
MedlinePlus
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ChEBI
35677
ATC code
N07CA01
DrugBank
DB06698
KEGG
D07522
Routes of administration
Oral
Cautions
Do not take SERC if you have a peptic ulcer or similar stomach conditions. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have a history of these conditions.
Do not take SERC if you have a history of pheochromocytoma.
If you have a history of asthma, speak with your doctor before taking SERC.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of SERC may include:
- Bloating
- Dyspepsia
- Headache
- Itching
- Nausea
- Skin rashes
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for a full list of side effects that apply to you.
References
- Serc [package insert]. Etobicoke, Ontario: Mylan; 2016
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 9379
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