Periactin Consumer Information

Periactin

Generic Name: cyproheptadine (sip row HEP ta deen)
Brand Names: Periactin

What is Periactin (cyproheptadine)?

Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine. Cyproheptadine blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in your body.

Cyproheptadine is used to treat sneezing; runny nose; itching, watery eyes; hives; rashes; itching; and other symptoms of allergies and the common cold.

Although not approved by the FDA for this purpose, cyproheptadine has been used to stimulate appetite in underweight patients.

Cyproheptadine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Periactin (cyproheptadine)?

Who should not take Periactin (cyproheptadine)?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye;

• a stomach ulcer;

• an enlarged prostate, bladder problems, or difficulty urinating;

• an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism);

• hypertension or any type of heart problems; or

• asthma.

You may not be able to take cyproheptadine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

How should I take Periactin (cyproheptadine)?

Take cyproheptadine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Cyproheptadine can be taken with or without food.

To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the syrup form of cyproheptadine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. The maximum amount of cyproheptadine that you should take in 1 day is 32 mg.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Symptoms of a cyproheptadine overdose include extreme sleepiness, confusion, weakness, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, large pupils, dry mouth, flushing, fever, shaking, insomnia, hallucinations, and possibly seizures.

What should I avoid while taking Periactin (cyproheptadine)?

Periactin (cyproheptadine) side effects

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take cyproheptadine and talk to your doctor if you experience

• sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness;

• headache;

• dry mouth; or

• difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Periactin (cyproheptadine)?

Talk to your pharmacist before taking other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or insomnia medications. These products may contain medicines similar to cyproheptadine, which could lead to an overdose of antihistamine.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• anxiety or sleep medicines such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), temazepam (Restoril), or triazolam (Halcion);

• medications for depression such as amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), or paroxetine (Paxil); or

• any other medications that make you feel drowsy, sleepy, or relaxed.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with cyproheptadine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.