Periactin
Cyproheptadine
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Periactin
Periactin is an anti-histamine drug. It acts by blocking the effects of naturally occurring histamines in the body. It also has appetite stimulant action.
Therapeutic Uses of Periactin
Periactin is used in the treatment of common cold, running nose, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, hives, skin rashes and other symptoms of common cold and allergy.
Direction of use of Periactin
Periactin should be used as directed by your doctor. Take Periactin with a glass full of water and it can be taken on empty stomach or on full stomach. You should use a special dose measuring spoon or cup, not a regular tablespoon to measure the syrup form of Periactin to get the correct dose. If you do not have the special dose measuring spoon or cup you should get it from healthcare providers and also if you do not understand any of the dosing instructions you should consult your doctor or other health care provider. You should never take more than prescribed dose of Periactin. The maximum amount of Periactin that you should take in a day is 32 mg.
If You Miss a Dose of Periactin
If you miss a dose of Periactin, take it as soon as you remember it. But, if it is almost time for the next dose than you should skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Never take 2 doses of Periactin, unless you doctor tells you to take.
How to Store Periactin
Periactin should be stored at room temperature away from heat, moisture and direct light. Keep Periactin out of reach of children.
More Information About Periactin
Periactin should be used by the person for whom it is prescribed and never shared with anyone. If you do not get any symptomatic improvement, you should consult your doctor. if you have any doubt regarding Periactin, you should ask your doctor or other health care provider.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Periactin
Do not take Periactin if you are taking or have taken in the last 2 weeks any of the drugs e.g. MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) like isocarboxazid, phenelzine or tranylcypromine. If you are taking Periactin with any of these drugs there may be serious drug interaction. You should inform your doctor if you have any of the following condition, before taking Periactin:
- Glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye (intra-ocular pressure).
- If you have bronchila asthma.
- Hypertension or any type of heart disease.
- If you have stomach ulcer, bladder problems (difficulty urinating) or BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia).
If you have any of the medical conditions listed above, you may not be able to take Periactin or you may need to take at lower dose or you may require close monitoring.
Possible Adverse Effects
- You should stop taking Periactin and get immediate medical attention if you develop any allergic reaction to Periactin. Allergic reaction is manifested by difficulty breathing, hives, feeling of closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, face etc.
- There also may be less serious side effects of Periactin like headache, sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate, dry mouth etc. If you get any less serious side effects you should consult your doctor only if these side effects become bothersome or persistent.