Role of Ginkgo biloba for controlling residual dizziness after successful treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: Our experiences at a tertiary care teaching hospital of Eastern India

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Canalith repositioning therapy (CRP) is usually effective treatment in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). However, still, some patients present residual dizziness after successful and effective repositioning maneuver. The objective of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on residual dizziness after canalith repositioning maneuver in patients of BPPV. G. biloba is a phytomedicine which enhances the blood supply to inner ear and brain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-two patients with BPPV were divided into two treatment groups, Ginkgo biloba group and Non-Ginkgo biloba group. In this prospective study, the Ginkgo biloba group received the similar CRP as the non-Ginkgo biloba group, with addition of G. biloba treatment after CRP. The duration of residual dizziness of Ginkgo biloba group and non-Ginkgo biloba group were compared. The scores of dizziness handicap inventory of these two groups were also compared. RESULTS: The duration of residual dizziness of Ginkgo biloba group was shorter than non-Ginkgo biloba group. There were no significant differences in the dizziness handicap inventory scores in the 1st week, whereas many significant differences in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th weeks. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that G. biloba can significantly minimize the residual dizziness after successful therapy with repositioning maneuver in patients of BPPV.