Stugeron: price, uses & cheaper substitutes

Stugeron contains cinnarizine 25 mg, an antihistamine that calms the balance organ of the inner ear. It is prescribed for vertigo (spinning dizziness), Ménière's disease and to prevent motion sickness on long journeys.

It usually starts easing the spinning within an hour or two of a dose. For an attack of vertigo your doctor may give it for several days until the inner ear settles. If dizziness continues beyond a couple of weeks, go back for a proper ear and nerve check rather than continuing on your own.

Both are used for vertigo. Cinnarizine (Stugeron) works quickly and also stops nausea but causes drowsiness, so it suits short courses. Betahistine (Vertin) is less sedating and is often used for longer-term control of Ménière's disease. Your doctor may use one or both depending on the cause.

Not until you know how it affects you. Cinnarizine commonly causes drowsiness and slower reactions, which is dangerous on a two-wheeler or in traffic. Avoid driving on the day of your first doses and never combine it with alcohol.