[Treatment of Meniere disease with betahistine dimesilate (Aequamen)—double-blind study versus placebo (crossover)]

The efficacy of treatment of Menière's disease was investigated in 2 double blind study versus placebo. Forty patients were given 36 mg betahistine dimesilate daily for at least six weeks. The course of disease and findings one year before and one year after the treatment were noted and compared for assessing the therapeutic success. The findings on threshold audiograms, spontaneous and provoked nystagmus and caloric tests did not show any significant changes. A slight improvement was noted in the low frequency range of threshold audiograms. Dizziness, tinnitus and disturbances of walking were significantly improved. The incidence of vertigo attacks was reduced to 64%. In 89% of the patients no further vertigo attacks were seen after the treatment. The best results of betahistine dimesilate treatment were observed in the early stages of Menière's disease.