Like all medicines, betahistine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. It's generally a very safe medicine.
Common side effects
These common side effects of betahistine happen in more than 1 in 100 people. They are usually mild and will stop by themselves. There are things you can do to help cope with them:
Feeling sick (nausea)
Take betahistine with or after a meal or snack. It may also help if you do not eat rich or spicy food.
Indigestion (acid reflux)
Take betahistine with or after food. If you get repeated indigestion, contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you need something to ease the discomfort, try taking an antacid, but do not put off going to the doctor.
Bloating or mild stomach ache
Try taking betahistine with or after food.
Headache
Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. You can take an everyday painkiller like paracetamol. Talk to your doctor if headaches last longer than a week or are severe.
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.
Serious allergic reaction
In rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to betahistine.
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
- you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
- you're wheezing
- you get tightness in the chest or throat
- you have trouble breathing or talking
- your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling
You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects of betahistine. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.