Cyproheptadine HCI

Cyproheptadine HCI belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines. It is used in the treatment of various allergic conditions. It relieves symptoms like itching, swelling and rashes. It is also used to treat loss of appetite. It is an effective hunger stimulant. Cyproheptadine is a sedating antihistamine with antimuscarinic, serotonin antagonist and Ca channel blocking properties. It competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells in the GI tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract.

• Allergic conditions (itching, swelling, rashes)
• Appetite stimulant
• Treatment and prophylaxis of migraine and other vascular headaches

Cyproheptadine is a sedating antihistamine with antimuscarinic, serotonin antagonist and Ca channel blocking properties. It competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells in the GI tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract.

Cyproheptadine competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells in the GI tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract, thereby blocking allergic reactions and stimulating appetite.

Adult - Allergic conditions: Initially: 4 mg three times daily, adjusted as necessary. Usual: 12-16 mg daily in 3-4 divided doses. Max: 32 mg/day.

Adult - Migraine prophylaxis: 4 mg may be repeated after 30 min. Not to exceed 8 mg within a 4- to 6-hour period. Maintenance: 4 mg every 4-6 hours.

Child - Allergic conditions (2-6 yr): 2 mg twice or three times daily. Max: 12 mg daily.

Child - Allergic conditions (7-14 yr): 4 mg twice or three times daily. Max: 16 mg daily.

Child - Migraine prophylaxis (3 years & adolescents): 0.2-0.4 mg/kg/day PO divided BID; not to exceed 0.5 mg/kg/day.

May be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Take in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor.

If you miss a dose of Cyproheptadine HCI, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Increased appetite
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Headache

• May cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in elderly patients, which may affect your ability to drive.
• Avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery as it may decrease alertness.
• Avoid alcohol as it may cause excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.
• Use with caution in elderly patients.

• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Acute asthmatic attack
• Bladder neck obstruction
• Stenosing peptic ulcer
• GIT obstruction
• MAOIs therapy
• Hypersensitivity
• Neonates
• Lactation

CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, antianxiety agents): May have additive effects.

Potentially Fatal: MAOIs prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.

May cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol. Can be taken with or without food.

Cyproheptadine HCI is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.

Cyproheptadine HCI is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby. Unless used to lower prolactin levels in the mother, it should be avoided as it might interfere with breastfeeding.

Dosage is established for children aged 2-14 years. Safety and effectiveness in children below 2 years have not been established.

Elderly patients have higher risk of dizziness, sedation, and hypotension. Use with caution.

Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Hepatic impairment: Limited information available on the use in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, fever, urinary retention, etc. Seek medical attention in case of overdose.

Store below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Cyproheptadine HCI