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 |
- |
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
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
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