Sedatives for vertigo

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
clonazepam	Klonopin
diazepam	Valium, Valrelease

How It Works

Diazepam and clonazepam have a calming effect. They help control 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 the medications.

How Well It Works

Sedatives often reduce or eliminate the symptoms of vertigo. Clonazepam controls vertigo for a longer time than diazepam.

Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects are drowsiness, fatigue, and loss of coordination (ataxia).

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.

Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW	Last Updated: January 29, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Barrie J. Hurwitz, MD - Neurology
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