What are the side effects of common vertigo medications?

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What are the side effects of common vertigo medications?

Medications used to treat vertigo can have various side effects, depending on the specific drug and the patient’s individual response. Here’s an overview of common vertigo medications and their potential side effects:

1. Antihistamines

Meclizine (Antivert, Bonine)

Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Dizziness

Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)

Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting (less common)

Promethazine (Phenergan)

Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Confusion (particularly in older adults)
- Potential for sedation and respiratory depression (especially at higher doses)

2. Benzodiazepines

Diazepam (Valium)

Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Unsteadiness
- Memory problems
- Dependence and withdrawal symptoms with long-term use

Lorazepam (Ativan)

Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Unsteadiness
- Confusion (especially in older adults)
- Dependence and withdrawal symptoms with long-term use

3. Anticholinergics

Scopolamine (Transderm Scop)

Common Side Effects:
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Confusion (especially in older adults)
- Urinary retention
- Constipation

4. Vestibular Suppressants

Betahistine (Serc)

Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Allergic reactions (rare)

5. Diuretics

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)

Common Side Effects:
- Increased urination
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium)
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Increased blood sugar levels
- Muscle cramps

Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Common Side Effects:
- Increased urination
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium)
- Tingling in hands and feet
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite

6. Corticosteroids

Prednisone

Common Side Effects:
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- High blood pressure
- Increased blood sugar levels
- Increased risk of infection
- Osteoporosis with long-term use

7. Anti-nausea Medications

Ondansetron (Zofran)

Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Rarely, heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)

Prochlorperazine (Compazine)

Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (e.g., tremors, rigidity)
- Tardive dyskinesia with long-term use

8. Calcium Channel Blockers

Verapamil

Common Side Effects:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure
- Swelling in the ankles and feet

9. Ginkgo Biloba

Common Side Effects:
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Allergic skin reactions
- Increased bleeding risk (especially if taken with anticoagulants)

Considerations:

Individual Variation: Side effects can vary greatly between individuals. Some people may experience minimal or no side effects, while others may have more pronounced reactions.
Drug Interactions: Many of these medications can interact with other drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of treatments.
Special Populations: Older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions may be at higher risk for certain side effects and should use these medications under close medical supervision.

Patients should always consult their healthcare providers before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen. It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of treatment options to make an informed decision based on individual health needs and circumstances.