Cyproheptadine General Information
Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Cyproheptadine also blocks another natural substance in your body (serotonin).
Cyproheptadine should not be used in newborn or premature infants.
How to Use Cyproheptadine
Take Cyproheptadine by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times a day. If you are using the liquid form of Cyproheptadine, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. In children, the dosage may also be based on weight and body size. Do not increase your dose or take Cyproheptadine more often than directed.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Cyproheptadine Possible Side Effects
Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, constipation, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Cyproheptadine because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Cyproheptadine do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, confusion, hallucinations), shaking (tremor), difficulty urinating, fast/irregular heartbeat.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: seizures.
A very serious allergic reaction to Cyproheptadine is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Cyproheptadine Precautions
Before taking Cyproheptadine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Cyproheptadine may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Cyproheptadine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), high pressure in the eye (glaucoma), heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, seizures, stomach/intestine problems (such as ulcers, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate).
Cyproheptadine may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Liquid products may contain alcohol and/or sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using Cyproheptadine safely.
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of Cyproheptadine. Cyproheptadine can often cause excitement in young children instead of drowsiness.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Cyproheptadine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, confusion, or trouble urinating. Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion can increase the risk of falling.
During pregnancy, Cyproheptadine should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if Cyproheptadine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Cyproheptadine Possible Intercations
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness including alcohol, other antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants, and narcotic pain relievers (such as codeine).
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur.
Cyproheptadine may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing, metyrapone test), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use Cyproheptadine.