Affiliations: [a] Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation, West Orange, NJ, USA | [b] Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Emerald Lin, MD, Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA. Tel.: +1 973 414 4768; E-mail: Lin.emerald@gmail.com
Abstract: Introduction:Dizziness and vertigo encompass a spectrum of balance-related symptoms caused by a variety of etiologies. Balance is affected by many systems: proprioceptive pathways, and visual, cerebellar, vestibulocochlear, and vascular/vasovagal systems. Treatment includes antihistamines, antiemetics, benzodiazepines, anti-inflammatory, anti-Meniere’s, anti-migraine, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and aminopyridines. Many medications may cause these balance-related symptoms. Onset characteristics differ and may be reversible or irreversible. Ototoxic drugs may affect the cochlea, the vestibular system, or both. Medications, whether at “therapeutic” or toxic doses, have a spectrum of side effects, depending on the medication and individual. Purpose:The section on drugs that treat dizziness and balance deficiencies was divided to elaborate on medications by classes and etiology specific treatment. Drugs with potential to cause balance-related symptoms were chosen to elaborate on specific medical issues encountered in rehabilitation. Background on advantages of certain drugs and methods to minimize adverse effects are reviewed. Summary:Effective treatment depends on generating an accurate diagnosis, using the appropriate drug, appropriate dosage, and for an appropriate duration. For every medication, there is a spectrum of side effects at “therapeutic” and toxic doses, depending on the medication and individual. Conclusion:Practitioners must ensure correct diagnoses and cater their treatments to the patients’ clinical scenario and medical units’ capacities.
