Cyproheptadine

Introduction To Cyproheptadine

Cyproheptadine belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines. It is used in the treatment of various allergic conditions. It relieves symptoms of inflammation as well as itching, swelling and rashes. It is also used to treat loss of appetite (need for food). It is an effective hunger stimulant.

Cyproheptadine can be taken with or without food and it is better to take it in a dose and duration as advised by the doctor. You may need this medicine only on days you have symptoms, or you may need to take it every day to prevent symptoms from happening. If you stop taking it earlier than advised, your symptoms may come back. This medicine is generally very safe.

This medicine may cause some amount of dizziness, so do not drive or do anything that needs attention. Consult your doctor if it persists or worries you. It may cause a headache in some cases. Before taking it, you should tell your doctor if you have any problems with your liver or kidneys or with your heart. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can cause excessive drowsiness with this medicine.

Uses of Cyproheptadine

  • Treatment of Allergic conditions
  • Appetite stimulant

Benefits of Cyproheptadine

Treatment of Allergic conditions
Cyproheptadine prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation and symptoms such as blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. It can be used to treat a great many different inflammatory and allergic conditions. It lowers your immune system’s response to these conditions so you should avoid being near people who are ill or have infections.

Appetite stimulant
Cyproheptadine increases hunger by constantly increasing the energy requirements of an individual. It promotes the desire to eat and therefore, it is a safe and effective way of managing undernutrition or malnutrition. It helps to treat loss of appetite and improves the nutritional status.

Side effects of Cyproheptadine

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Aprise

  • Dizziness
  • Headache

How to use Cyproheptadine

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Measure it with a measuring cup and take it by mouth. Shake well before use. Cyproheptadine may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

How Cyproheptadine works

Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine medication. It blocks the action of certain chemical messengers that are responsible for inflammation, congestion, itching, and other allergic reactions. Due to constant increased energy intake and stimulation of growth hormone secretion, it stimulates the appetite too.

Quick tips

  • Take Cyproheptadine as per dose and duration suggested by your doctor.
  • Avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery as it may decrease alertness.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol when taking the Cyproheptadine, as it may cause excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.

Safety Advice

sdsPregnancySAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Can I take Cyproheptadine if I’m pregnant?

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

sdsBreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Can I take Cyproheptadine if I’m breastfeeding?

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

sdsAlcoholUNSAFE

Is drinking alcohol while taking Cyproheptadine safe?

Cyproheptadine may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.

sdsDrivingUNSAFE

Can I drive after taking Cyproheptadine?

Cyproheptadine may cause side effects which could affect your ability to drive. Cyproheptadine may cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in elderly patients. This may affect your ability to drive.

sdsKidneyCAUTION

Can I take Cyproheptadine if I have/had kidney diseases?

Cyproheptadine should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Cyproheptadine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

sdsLiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Cyproheptadine if I have/had liver diseases?

There is limited information available on the use of Cyproheptadine in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.

References

Written By:

Dr Advikka Ridhy

Dr Advikka Ridhy

MBBS

RMO, Aster MIMS

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