Controlled clinical trial comparing the effect of betahistine hydrochloride and prochlorperazine maleate on patients with Meniére's disease

Abstract

Therapeutic effects of prochlorperazine and betahistine on patients with confirmed Meniere's disease (range of duration 1-11 years) were compared in a double-blind cross-over trial. The two active treatment periods lasted 4 montsh each, separated by a single blind "wash-out" period of 1 month's duration. Out of 30 patients 23 completed the trial. The clinical status of the patients was followed by the investigator by regular control visits during the trial period. Upon completion of the study preference for the first or the second period was assessed. The therapeutic effect of betahistine was found to be superior to that of prochlorperazine (sign test a = 0.05). The number of vertigo attacks was calculated in 17 patients and on this basis the two drugs were of equal value (Pratt's test 2 a = 0.05). No side effects were observed.