Common Use

Periactin is an antihistamine used to relieve or prevent symptoms of hay fever and other allergies. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance produced by the body. Additionally, Periactin is prescribed to prevent motion sickness, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It is sometimes used to treat cluster headaches and stimulate appetite in underweight individuals.

Dosage and Direction

Consult your doctor before using Periactin. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage. Take each dose with a full glass of water, with or without food. The maximum daily dose is 32 mg. For adults, the recommended dose is 4 mg (1 tablet) three times daily, with typical daily doses ranging from 12 mg to 16 mg. Elderly patients may require lower doses.

For children aged 7 to 14, the recommended dose is 4 mg (1 tablet) two or three times daily, not exceeding 16 mg per day. For children aged 2 to 6, the dose is 2 mg (half a tablet) two or three times daily, not exceeding 12 mg per day.

Note: This information is for review only. Always consult your doctor before use for optimal results.

Precautions

Periactin may cause drowsiness or impair coordination. Use caution when driving, climbing, or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Exercise care if you have a history of bronchial asthma, glaucoma, overactive thyroid, high blood pressure, heart disease, or circulatory problems. Avoid Periactin during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, or while breastfeeding unless advised by your doctor.

Contraindications

Periactin should not be used in the following cases:

• Patients undergoing treatment for an acute asthmatic attack
• Newborn or premature infants (risk of apnea, cyanosis, respiratory difficulty)
• Breastfeeding mothers
• Patients with known sensitivity to cyproheptadine hydrochloride or similar drugs
• Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Glaucoma
• Patients with pyloroduodenal obstruction, stenosing peptic ulcer, symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary retention
• Elderly or debilitated patients

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects include allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), confusion, hallucinations, seizures, ringing in the ears, fainting, rapid heartbeat, easy bruising, reduced urination, pale or yellowed skin, dark urine, fever, or unusual weakness.

Less serious side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, insomnia, numbness, increased sweating, blurred vision, appetite changes, dry mouth, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. If you experience any of these, stop using Periactin and consult your doctor immediately.

Drug Interaction

Periactin may interact with medications such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate). Drug interactions do not always require discontinuation but may affect efficacy. Consult your doctor to manage potential interactions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take double or extra doses.

Overdose

Symptoms of Periactin overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, dry mouth, dilated pupils, pale skin, vomiting, or fainting. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose.

Storage

Store Periactin at room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C) away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

The information provided is general and does not cover all directions, precautions, or drug interactions. It is not intended for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance. We disclaim responsibility for any inaccuracies or consequences of self-treatment.