What is Cyproheptadine?
(sye-proe-HEP-tuh-deen)
Cyproheptadine (Periactin) is used to relieve allergic symptoms.
It is also used to relieve headaches, and motion sickness. It may also be prescribed to your child to increase his or her appetite to help with emptying of the stomach and improve symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Cyproheptadine comes in syrup and tablet forms.
Special Instructions
- If your child is going to be tested for allergies, stop giving this medication at least four days before the test. This medication can affect the results of allergy tests.
- It is important to come to all doctor appointments so your child's doctor can make sure your child is getting the right dose and that the medication is not causing side effects.
- Give your child this medication with food, milk or water.
- Store at room temperature and away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Tell your doctor if your child has asthma, glaucoma, ulcers, or difficulty urinating before giving this medicine. It may make these conditions worse.
- Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight. Wear sunscreen.
- Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle / package.
- If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
If Your Child Misses a Dose
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and / or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
Possible Side Effects of Medication
- Increased appetite or weight gain
- Excitability or nervousness
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth, dry nose, dry throat
- Increased sensitivity to sun exposure
- Dizziness
- Chest congestion
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
- Headache
- Ringing or pressure inside the ear
Call Your Child's Doctor If:
- Difficulty breathing
- Heart pounding or irregular heartbeat
- Agitation
- Seizures / convulsions
- Difficulty urinating
- Skin rash or hives
