Overview
DESCRIPTION: Cyproheptadine HCl, is an antihistaminic and antiserotonergic agent. Cyproheptadine hydrochloride is a while to slightly yellowish, crystalline, solid. with a molecular weight of 350.89, which is slightly soluble in water, freely soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in ethanol, soluble in chloroform, and practically insoluble in ether.
Mechanism of Action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Cyproheptadine HCI is a serotonin and histamine antagonist with anticholinergic and sedative effects. Antiserotonin and antihistamine drugs appears to compete with serotonin and histamine, respectively, for receptor sites. Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism: After a single 4 mg oral dose of 14C-labeled cyproheptadine HCl normal subjects given as tablets or syrup, 2-20% of the radioactivity was excreted in the stools. Only about 34% of the stool radioactivity was unchanged drug, corresponding to less than 5.7% of the dose. At least 40% of the administered radioactivity was excreted in the urine. No significant difference in the mean urinary excretion exists between the tablet and syrup formulations.
Indications
- INDICATIONS AND USAGE: Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis, Vasomotor rhinitis, Allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods. Mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema. Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma. Cold urticaria. Dermatographism. As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.
Common Doses
- 0.25 mg
- 0.11 mg
- 8 mg
- 2 mg
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT. Children: The total daily dosage for children may be calculated on the basis of body weight or body area using approximately 0.25 mg/kg/day (0.11 mg/lb/day) or 8 mg per square meter of body surface (8 mg/m 2 ). In small children for whom the calculation of the dosage based upon body size is important, it may be necessary to use cyproheptadine syrup to permit accurate dosage.
Contraindications
- CONTRAINDICATIONS Newborn or Premature Infants: This drug should not be used in newborn or premature infants. Nursing Mothers: Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally, and for newborns and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers. Other Conditions: Hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine and other drugs of similar chemical structure. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy (see DRUG INTERACTIONS ). Angle-closure glaucoma. Stenosing peptic ulcer. Symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy. Bladder neck obstruction.
Side Effects
- ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions which have been reported with the use of antihistamines are as follows: Central Nervous System: Sedation and sleepiness (often transient), dizziness, disturbed coordination, confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, paresthesias, neuritis, convulsions, euphoria, hallucinations, hysteria, faintness. Integumentary: Allergic manifestation of rash and edema, excessive perspiration, urticaria, photosensitivity. Special Senses: Acute labyrinthitis, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus.
Interactions
- No major interactions listed on the FDA label. Always consult a healthcare professional.