Cyproheptadine helps relieve symptoms of allergy, such as runny nose, itch, watery eyes, and sneezing. It also helps relieve allergic skin conditions such as hives and itchy rash.
This medicine may also be used to prevent or treat migraine (severe throbbing or pulsating sensation usually affecting one side of the head and is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound) and other similar headaches.
Cyproheptadine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Cyproheptadine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by the doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Cyproheptadine is available as a tablet and an oral solution or syrup.
If you are taking an oral solution or syrup, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
You may stop taking this medicine once you feel better, unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- angle-closure glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- stomach ulcers
- obstruction of the stomach outlet
- prostate enlargement
- bladder problems
- currently being treated for an asthma attack
as Cyproheptadine may not be suitable for you.
Do not give this medicine to newborn or premature infants, elderly and debilitated (a person who is physically or mentally weak usually due to illness or old age). Newborn or premature infants, elderly and debilitated people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with Cyproheptadine.
Do not take this medicine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine that is used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- thyroid problems e.g. overactive thyroid gland
- history of asthma or other lung problems
- acute porphyria (an inherited disorder that causes skin or nervous system abnormalities)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Cyproheptadine to a child more than 2 years old.
If you are going to have certain laboratory tests (e.g. skin test), inform your doctor or the laboratory personnel that you are taking this medicine.
Cyproheptadine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, dry nose, mouth, or throat; dizziness with spinning sensation, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, increased appetite, weight gain, blurred or double vision, ringing in the ears, difficulty passing urine, feeling confused, difficulty sleeping, restlessness, tremors, and increased sweating.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, mouth or throat
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine, tiredness
- rapid or irregular heartbeat, feeling faint
- unusual bleeding or bruising; frequent and persistent sore throat with fever
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Cyproheptadine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine that is used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines to treat depression e.g. citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline
- medicines for anxiety e.g. diazepam, alprazolam
- medicines for sleep disorder e.g. zolpidem
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Cyproheptadine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Cyproheptadine.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.