Generic Periactin

Product Information

Uses and How to Use

Periactin Uses

This medication relieves seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms such as watery/itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. It is also used to relieve itching and hives caused by some skin conditions. Cyproheptadine belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances in the body (histamine and serotonin).

Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all of the doctor's dosage directions. Do not give other cough and cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (e.g., saline nose drops/spray, using a humidifier or infant nasal suction bulb).

How To Use Periactin

Take this medication by mouth, usually 2 to 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. You may take this drug with food to minimize stomach upset. When using the syrup, measure the dose out carefully with a medication spoon/cup.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. In children, the dosage is also based on weight. Children 2 to 6 years of age should not take more than 12 milligrams per day unless directed by the doctor. Children 7 to 14 years of age should not take more than 16 milligrams per day unless directed by the doctor. Adults should not take more than 32 milligrams per day.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.

Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Precautions and Side Effects

Periactin Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, loss of coordination, upset stomach, constipation, increased appetite, weight gain, thickening of mucus in the nose/throat, or dry mouth/throat/nose may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

     * mental/mood changes (e.g., unusual excitement, confusion, hallucinations)

    * fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat

    * difficulty urinating

    * seizures

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

    * stomach/abdominal pain

    * persistent nausea/vomiting

    * yellowing eyes/skin

    * dark urine

    * unusual tiredness

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:

    * rash

    * itching

    * swelling

    * severe dizziness

    * trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Dosage and Storage

Periactin Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose in children may include mental/mood changes, unusual excitement, or seizures. Symptoms of overdose in adults may include severe drowsiness or loss of consciousness, which may be followed by unusual excitement or seizures.

Periactin Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Periactin Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Periactin Storage

Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze the oral solution. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.