Sedatives for vertigo
Examples
| clonazepam |
Klonopin |
| diazepam |
Valium |
How It Works
Diazepam and clonazepam have a calming
effect. They may be able to help with vertigo by reducing the activity of the
brain and reducing anxiety. They also can help limit nausea and
vomiting.
Why It Is Used
Sedatives are prescribed to control
vertigo caused by inner ear problems. This is an
unlabeled use of these medicines.
How Well It Works
These medicines do give some people
relief from vertigo and nausea. But there is no scientific evidence to show
that these medicines help with symptoms of vertigo.1
Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effects
are drowsiness, fatigue, and loss of coordination (ataxia).
The
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning on clonazepam
(Klonopin) and the risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts. The FDA does not
recommend that people stop using this medicine. Instead, people who take
clonazepam should be watched closely for
warning signs of suicide. People who take clonazepam
and who are worried about this side effect should talk to a doctor.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is
not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Sedatives can be habit-forming in
some people if they are used over a long period of time or if the person has
other drug addictions, including alcohol.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?)
to help you understand this medication.
References
Citations
-
Fife TD, et al. (2008). Practice parameter: Therapies
for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (an evidence-based review). Report of
the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology.
Neurology, 70(22): 2067–2074.
Last Updated:
December 29, 2008
Fife TD, et al. (2008). Practice parameter: Therapies
for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (an evidence-based review). Report of
the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology.
Neurology, 70(22): 2067–2074.
