Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Cyproheptadine

Cyproheptadine: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is cyproheptadine?

Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine drug that eases allergic symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes, redness, itchiness, irritation, sneezing, etc. When you consume it, it blocks histamine, a natural substance your body produces in response to an allergic reaction. Moreover, it also helps treat hives, including those caused by cold temperatures or rubbing of the skin.

Doctors use cyproheptadine to treat several allergic reactions accompanied by bleeding, and certain life-threatening allergies and their symptoms.

What are the uses of cyproheptadine?

During an allergic reaction, your immune system produces histamine to destroy the allergen. In this process, histamine makes you sneeze, itch, tear up, etc. This is part of your body’s natural defense to fight abnormal activity. 

Doctors prescribe antihistamines to tame these allergic symptoms. The uses of cyproheptadine include reducing:

  • Sneezing 
  • Itchy, blocked, or runny nose 
  • Red, itchy, and watery eyes 
  • Shortness of breath or a cough
  • Hives (itchy and red rashes on the skin)
  • Swollen tongue, lips, eyes, or face
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Red, itchy, and cracked skin

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    What are the side effects of cyproheptadine?

    Cyproheptadine may not suit everybody. Some side effects of cyproheptadine include:

    • Lightheadedness
    • Tremors
    • Hallucinations
    • Confusion
    • Seizures
    • Bleeding
    • Easy bruising
    • Fast heartbeat
    • Pale or yellowed skin
    • Dizziness
    • Dry mouth
    • Dark-colored urine
    • Fever
    • Ringing in your ears
    • Dry nose or throat
    • Constipation
    • Weakness
    • Drowsiness

    Common side effects of cyproheptadine disappear on their own. But if you experience severe side effects like blurred vision, difficulty in urination, or nervousness, consult your doctor immediately.

    What is Cyproheptadine

    Uses of Cyproheptadine

    Side effects of Cyproheptadine

    References

    1. Cyproheptadine | Side Effects | Dosage | Precautions | Medicine.
    2. drug monograph Cyproheptadine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
    3. Cyproheptadine

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Cyproheptadine

    You can consume cyproheptadine orally as a tablet or a liquid, as prescribed by your doctor. After its consumption, it is well-absorbed by the body and starts working. The peak plasma levels occur after approximately 1–3 hours of consumption. The terminal half-life of this medicine is nearly 8 hours.

    You can stop taking cyproheptadine once the allergic reaction and your symptoms have subsided. After completing a routine dosage, you may need to visit your doctor again. They will check if the medication has relieved all the symptoms. Once assured, they will ask you to stop the dosage.

    Cyproheptadine hydrochloride stimulates appetite and can result in weight gain in underweight adults. Other people with average weight are at risk of obesity after consuming the medicine. Increased appetite is a side effect of cyproheptadine that can result in weight gain. Various patients who had consumed cyproheptadine have noticed weight changes.

    Yes. You can purchase OTC (over-the-counter) medicines from a pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription. While you can buy cyproheptadine this way, it is suggested to consult a doctor. Even if you know the solution, a doctor will prescribe the correct dosage and recommend suitable precautions based on your weight, condition, symptoms, medical history, etc.

    Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, a first-generation antihistamine, has shown weight gain in patients as it has appetite stimulation properties. However, consult a doctor and get a prescription if you wish to increase your appetite. They can suggest alternatives as well to boost your appetite. Don’t consume cyproheptadine for this purpose without a prescription.

    A side effect of cyproheptadine is drowsiness. Several insomnia patients have therefore wondered whether they can consume it to help them sleep. This medicine can be considered to help control disturbances in sleep. However, if you are experiencing a chronic sleep disorder, consult a doctor before taking cyproheptadine for it.

    If you have consulted a doctor and consumed cyproheptadine in the right dosage, it won’t harm your body. It works effectively and swiftly by easing inconvenient allergic symptoms. Ensure you understand the dosage instructions, potential side effects, and precautions. The medicine will only benefit you if you take it appropriately.

    No. Cyproheptadine does its job well when taken for a limited period. Once it reduces your symptoms, talk to your doctor and stop the course. Extended use or misuse of cyproheptadine can result in severe side effects like diabetes, weight gain, immune system suppression, and hypertension (high blood pressure).

    77.2% of cyproheptadine users were afraid of cyproheptadine addiction. Some patients took high doses to see improved results in a short time. This is risky, as it only increases the chances of side effects. Follow the prescription, as the dosage is designed to avoid drug abuse. Over 97.5% of users have found cyproheptadine effective without developing an addiction.

    No. Cyproheptadine is an appetite stimulant and antihistamine medicine. It has additional antiserotonergic, anticholinergic, and local anesthetic properties. However, another similar drug – dexamethasone – is a potent, strong steroid that reduces inflammation in several conditions. Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine drug that blocks the production of histamine in the body.

    You can consult our experts at Yashoda Hospitals if you are facing problems related to allergy, sleep cycle, or appetite. Our doctors are just an appointment away to help you bid farewell to your problems.