What medications are used for emergency treatment of dizziness?

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Commonly used emergency medications for dizziness include betahistine, flunarizine, difenidol, promethazine, and diphenhydramine. The choice of medication should be based on the underlying cause of dizziness; blind self-medication is not recommended. If dizziness is severe and accompanied by vomiting, seizures, or impaired consciousness, immediate medical attention is advised. These drugs help dilate cerebral blood vessels and improve inner ear circulation, making them suitable for dizziness caused by vertigo of inner ear origin.

Commonly used emergency medications for dizziness include betahistine, flunarizine, difenidol, promethazine, and diphenhydramine. The choice of medication should be based on the underlying cause of dizziness and taken under medical guidance; self-medication should be avoided. If dizziness is severe and accompanied by vomiting, seizures, or impaired consciousness, immediate medical attention is recommended.

1. Betahistine: Dilates cerebral blood vessels and improves inner ear circulation. It is suitable for dizziness caused by vestibular (inner ear) vertigo, effectively relieving symptoms such as vertigo and tinnitus. It acts quickly and is ideal for acute episodes.

2. Flunarizine: Relieves vascular spasms and improves cerebral blood supply. It is appropriate for dizziness due to cerebral vasospasm or insufficient cerebral perfusion. With long-lasting effects, it can help prevent recurrent dizziness.

3. Difenidol: Suppresses vestibular nerve function and reduces the sensation of vertigo. It is effective for dizziness caused by motion sickness (such as car or sea sickness) or inner ear balance disorders, and rapidly alleviates associated nausea.

4. Promethazine: Possesses both antihistamine and sedative properties. It is suitable for dizziness caused by allergies or vestibular dysfunction, and helps relieve restlessness associated with dizziness. Caution is advised—patients should avoid driving or operating machinery after taking this medication.

5. Diphenhydramine: Has strong antihistamine effects and can relieve dizziness caused by allergic reactions. It also has sedative properties, making it suitable for patients experiencing dizziness along with allergic symptoms such as skin itching or sneezing.

When dizziness occurs, have the patient lie down flat to prevent falls, keep the environment quiet and well-ventilated, loosen collars and belts to ensure unobstructed breathing, check medication contraindications and expiration dates before use, follow the recommended dosage on the label, and avoid excessive or overlapping use of medications.