Periactin 4mg Cyproheptadine HCL, 20 Tablets

Periactin 4mg contains Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride, a first-generation antihistamine with additional antiserotonin and anticholinergic properties. Beyond its antihistamine activity for allergic conditions, Cyproheptadine is widely used clinically as an appetite stimulant - its serotonin antagonism and central effects promote increased appetite and weight gain in underweight children and adults where poor appetite is a concern. The sedative side effect of this first-generation antihistamine is a known clinical consideration.

Specs

• Active ingredient: Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride 4mg
• Drug class: First-generation antihistamine + antiserotonin
• Form: Tablets
• Pack size: 20 tablets
• Secondary use: Appetite stimulation
• Sedation: Yes - first-generation antihistamine

Benefits

• Cyproheptadine's H1 receptor blockade provides effective antihistamine therapy for allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and allergic pruritus - particularly useful where a more sedating antihistamine is acceptable or desired for nighttime allergy symptoms that disrupt sleep
• The antiserotonin activity and central appetite-stimulating effects make Cyproheptadine the most widely used antihistamine for appetite stimulation in underweight children and adults - it increases appetite and caloric intake, contributing to weight gain in nutritionally compromised patients
• The sedative side effect, while a limitation for daytime use, can be leveraged for nighttime administration where the combination of allergy symptom relief and gentle sedation improves nighttime sleep quality
• Relatively low cost and broad availability through pharmacy channels make Periactin an accessible first-line option for mild to moderate seasonal allergy where daytime sedation is either acceptable or manageable
• The antiserotonin properties provide additional clinical uses in migraine prophylaxis and the management of serotonin-mediated conditions that have been explored in specialist practice

How to Use

• Take as directed by your physician or pharmacist
• Standard adult allergy dose: 4mg three times daily
• Appetite stimulation: typically 4mg before meals as directed by physician
• Do not drive or operate machinery after taking - Cyproheptadine causes significant drowsiness
• Avoid alcohol - the sedative effect is enhanced by alcohol
• May cause dry mouth, urinary retention, and constipation due to anticholinergic effects - consult a physician if troublesome
• Not suitable for newborns or premature infants
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration