Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

In which condition is Betahistine primarily utilized?

1. Hypertension

2. Meniere's disease

3. Benign prostatic hyperplasia

4. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The correct answer is: Meniere's disease

Betahistine is primarily utilized in the treatment of Meniere's disease, which is a disorder of the inner ear that can lead to vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and hearing loss. Betahistine acts as a histamine analogue, enhancing blood flow to the inner ear and helping to reduce the pressure that contributes to the symptoms experienced in Meniere's disease. This medication works by stimulating the release of histamine, which has a role in regulating the inner ear's fluid balance, thus mitigating the episodes of vertigo associated with this condition. The effectiveness of Betahistine in alleviating the symptoms of vertigo is well-documented, making it a standard treatment for patients diagnosed with Meniere's disease. In contrast, other conditions listed, such as hypertension, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, do not have a direct relationship with Betahistine usage. Each of these conditions has different therapeutic approaches and medications that are more suitable for their management.