Other Commonly Used Otological Medications

The other branch of otology related medication to be familiar with is the pharmacological treatment of vertigo.

Briefly, the two main pharmacological targeted ENT causes of vertigo are;

Ménière's – intermittent overaccumulation of endolymphatic fluid

Vestibular Neuritis – often infection (viral) causing inflammation of vestibular nerve 

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For more in-depth information on vertigo check out or physiology of balance page or alternatively our sections on the ENT conditions causing vertigo.

Antihistamines - symptomatic relief

Anticholinergic - block muscarinic transmission in CNS

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Phenothiazines are anticholinergic and have anti-dopaminergic actions

Pregnancy & lactation

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Antihistamines: promethazine, prochlorperazine, metoclopramide commonly used for hyperemesis in pregnancy. Antihistamines are vestibular suppressants.

Cyclizine and promethazine extensively used during pregnancy. No problem with prochlorperazine.

Avoid betahistine in pregnancy!

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