Sedatives for vertigo

Sedatives for vertigo
Examples
How It Works
Why It Is Used
How Well It Works
Side Effects
What To Think About
Credits

Content provided by Healthwise

Examples

Brand Name	Chemical Name
Klonopin	clonazepam

Brand Name	Chemical Name
Valrelease	diazepam

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.

Credits

Author	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Barrie J. Hurwitz, MD - Neurology
Last Updated	January 29, 2007

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Last updated:	January 29, 2007
Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Barrie J. Hurwitz, MD - Neurology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman

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