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Health Library Sedatives for VertigoFrom Healthwise

Home > Health Information from A-Z > Health Library > Drug Guide

Sedatives for Vertigo

Examples

Generic NameBrand Name
clonazepamKlonopin
diazepamValium

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.

Why It Is Used

Sedatives are prescribed to control vertigo caused by inner ear problems.

How Well It Works

These medicines can reduce the spinning feeling people have when they have vertigo.1 But they also slow down the brain's ability to adjust to the abnormal balance signals triggered by the inner ear.

These medicines are not as effective in treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) as the Epley or Semont maneuvers.

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

  1. Bhattacharyya N, et al. (2008). Clinical practice guideline: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, 139(5, Suppl 4): S47–S81.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerBarrie J. Hurwitz, MD, MD - Neurology
Last RevisedDecember 16, 2010

Last Revised: December 16, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Barrie J. Hurwitz, MD, MD - Neurology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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