Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride Tablets Usp

Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride Tablets Usp
SPL v13
SPL
SPL Set ID 03e69414-8a25-4ed8-b7ac-16445b879b1f
Route
ORAL
Published
Effective Date 2026-01-27
Document Type 34391-3 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Drug Facts

Composition & Product

Active Ingredients
Cyproheptadine (4 mg)
Inactive Ingredients
Lactose Monohydrate Magnesium Stearate Cellulose, Microcrystalline Sodium Starch Glycolate Type A Potato

Identifiers & Packaging

Pill Appearance
Imprint: B137 Shape: round Color: white Size: 7 mm Score: 2
Marketing Status
ANDA Active Since 2020-03-01

Description

Cyproheptadine HCl, is an antihistaminic and antiserotonergic agent. Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, USP is a white to slightly yellowish crystalline solid, with a molecular weight of 350.89, which is soluble in water, freely soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in ethanol, soluble in chloroform, and practically insoluble in ether. It is the sesquihydrate 4-(5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ylidene)-1-methylpiperidine hydrochloride. The molecular formula of the anhydrous salt is C 21 H 21 N•HCl and the structural formula of the anhydrous salt is as follows: C 21 H 21 N• HCl M.W. 350.89 Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, USP is available for oral administration in 4 mg tablets. Each tablet contains:  Inactives: Lactose Monohydrate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Starch Glycolate and Magnesium Stearate.

Indications and Usage

Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis Vasomotor rhinitisAllergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foodsMild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema.Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasmaCold urticariaDermatographism As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

Dosage and Administration

DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT. Each tablet contains 4 mg of cyproheptadine hydrochloride.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions which have been reported with the use of antihistamines are as follows:

Drug Interactions

MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. Antihistamines may have additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants, e.g., hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, antianxiety agents.

How Supplied

Cyproheptadine hydrochloride tablets USP, 4 mg are available as white to off-white color, round flat face tablet with debossed “B137” on one side and scored on the other, containing 4 mg of cyproheptadine HCl packaged in bottles of : PHARMACIST: Dispense in a well-closed container as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure (as required). Bottles of 30 tablets: NDC 72789-102-30 Bottles of 100 tablets: NDC 72789-102-01


Medication Information

Indications and Usage

Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis

Vasomotor rhinitisAllergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foodsMild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema.Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasmaCold urticariaDermatographism

As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

Dosage and Administration

DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT.

Each tablet contains 4 mg of cyproheptadine hydrochloride.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions which have been reported with the use of antihistamines are as follows:

Drug Interactions

MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.

Antihistamines may have additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants, e.g., hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, antianxiety agents.

How Supplied

Cyproheptadine hydrochloride tablets USP, 4 mg are available as white to off-white color, round flat face tablet with debossed “B137” on one side and scored on the other, containing 4 mg of cyproheptadine HCl packaged in bottles of :

PHARMACIST: Dispense in a well-closed container as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure (as required).

Bottles of 30 tablets: NDC 72789-102-30

Bottles of 100 tablets: NDC 72789-102-01

Description

Cyproheptadine HCl, is an antihistaminic and antiserotonergic agent. Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, USP is a white to slightly yellowish crystalline solid, with a molecular weight of 350.89, which is soluble in water, freely soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in ethanol, soluble in chloroform, and practically insoluble in ether. It is the sesquihydrate 4-(5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ylidene)-1-methylpiperidine hydrochloride. The molecular formula of the anhydrous salt is C 21H 21N•HCl and the structural formula of the anhydrous salt is as follows:

C 21H 21N• HCl M.W. 350.89

Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, USP is available for oral administration in 4 mg tablets. Each tablet contains:  Inactives:Lactose Monohydrate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Starch Glycolate and Magnesium Stearate.

Adults

The total daily dose for adults should not exceed 0.5 mg/kg/day. The therapeutic range is 4 to 20 mg a day, with the majority of patients requiring 12 to 16 mg a day. An occasional patient may require as much as 32 mg a day for adequate relief. It is suggested that dosage be initiated with 4 mg (1 tablet) three times a day and adjusted according to the size and response of the patient.

General

Cyproheptadine has an atropine-like action and, therefore, should be used with caution in patients with:

History of bronchial asthmaIncreased intraocular pressureHyperthyroidismCardiovascular diseaseHypertension

Storage

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Overdosage

Antihistamine overdosage reactions may vary from central nervous system depression to stimulation especially in pediatric patients. Also, atropine-like signs and symptoms (dry mouth; fixed, dilated pupils; flushing, etc.) as well as gastrointestinal symptoms may occur.

If vomiting has not occurred spontaneously, the patient should be induced to vomit with syrup of ipecac.

If patient is unable to vomit, perform gastric lavage followed by activated charcoal. Isotonic or ½ isotonic saline is the lavage of choice. Precautions against aspiration must be taken especially in infants and children.

When life threatening CNS signs and symptoms are present, intravenous physostigmine salicylate may be considered. Dosage and frequency of administration are dependent on age, clinical response, and recurrence after response. (See package circulars for physostigmine products.)

Saline cathartics, as milk of magnesia, by osmosis draw water into the bowel and, therefore, are valuable for their action in rapid dilution of bowel content.

Stimulants should not be used.

Vasopressors may be used to treat hypotension.

The oral LD 50of cyproheptadine is 123 mg/kg, and 295 mg/kg in the mouse and rat, respectively.

Hematologic

Hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia.

Respiratory

Dryness of nose and throat, thickening of bronchial secretions, tightness of chest and wheezing, nasal stuffiness.

Genitourinary

Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of cyproheptadine HCl tablets did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy (see WARNINGS, Activities Requiring Mental Alertness).

Integumentary

Allergic manifestation of rash and edema, excessive perspiration, urticaria, photosensitivity.

Miscellaneous

Fatigue, chills, headache, increased appetite/weight gain.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of two have not been established (see CONTRAINDICATIONS, Newborn or Premature Infants, and WARNINGS, Pediatric Patients).

Cardiovascular

Hypotension, palpitation, tachycardia, extrasystoles, anaphylactic shock.

Special Senses

Acute labyrinthitis, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus.

Cns Depressants

Antihistamines may have additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants, e.g., hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, antianxiety agents.

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.

Age 2 to 6 Years

The total daily dosage for pediatric patients may be calculated on the basis of body weight or body area using approximately 0.25 mg/kg/day or 8 mg per square meter of body surface (8 mg/m 2).

The usual dose is 2 mg (½ tablet) two or three times a day, adjusted as necessary to the size and response of the patient. The dose is not to exceed 12 mg a day.

Digestive System

Cholestasis, hepatic failure, hepatitis, hepatic function abnormality, dryness of mouth, epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, jaundice.

Other Conditions

Hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine and other drugs of similar chemical structure.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy (See DRUG INTERACTIONS.)Angle-closure glaucomaStenosing peptic ulcerSymptomatic prostatic hypertrophyBladder neck obstructionPyloroduodenal obstructionElderly, debilitated patients

Age 7 to 14 Years

The usual dose is 4 mg (1 tablet) two or three times a day adjusted as necessary to the size and response of the patient. The dose is not to exceed 16 mg a day.

Pediatric Patients

Overdosage of antihistamines, particularly in infants and young children, may produce hallucinations, central nervous system depression, convulsions, respiratory and cardiac arrest, and death. Antihistamines may diminish mental alertness; conversely, particularly, in the young child, they may occasionally produce excitation.

Pregnancy Category B

Reproduction studies have been performed in rabbits, mice, and rats at oral or subcutaneous doses up to 32 times the maximum recommended human oral dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to cyproheptadine. Cyproheptadine has been shown to be fetotoxic in rats when given by intraperitoneal injection in doses four times the maximum recommended human oral dose. Two studies in pregnant women, however, have not shown that cyproheptadine increases the risk of abnormalities when administered during the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy. No teratogenic effects were observed in any of the newborns. Nevertheless, because the studies in humans cannot rule out the possibility of harm, cyproheptadine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Clinical Pharmacology

Cyproheptadine is a serotonin and histamine antagonist with anticholinergic and sedative effects. Antiserotonin and antihistamine drugs appear to compete with serotonin and histamine, respectively, for receptor sites.

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.

Information for Patients

Antihistamines may diminish mental alertness; conversely, particularly, in the young child, they may occasionally produce excitation. Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

Newborn Or Premature Infants

This drug should notbe used in newborn or premature infants.

Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism

After a single 4 mg oral dose of 14C-labelled cyproheptadine HCl in normal subjects, given as tablets, 2 to 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 detectable amounts of unchanged drug were present in the urine of patients on chronic 12 to 20 mg daily doses. The principle metabolite found in human urine has been identified as a quaternary ammonium glucuronide conjugate of cyproheptadine. Elimination is diminished in renal insufficiency.

Activities Requiring Mental Alertness

Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

Antihistamines are more likely to cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in elderly patients (see PRECAUTIONS, Geriatric Use).

Principal Display Panel 4 Mg Label Text

Rx only

Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride Tablets USP, 4 mg

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term carcinogenic studies have not been done with cyproheptadine.

Cyproheptadine had no effect on fertility in a two-litter study in rats or a two generation study in mice at about 10 times the human dose.

Cyproheptadine did not produce chromosome damage in human lymphocytes or fibroblasts in vitro; high doses (10 -4M) were cytotoxic. Cyproheptadine did not have any mutagenic effect in the Ames microbial mutagen test; concentrations of above 500 mcg/plate inhibited bacterial growth.


Structured Label Content

Adults

The total daily dose for adults should not exceed 0.5 mg/kg/day. The therapeutic range is 4 to 20 mg a day, with the majority of patients requiring 12 to 16 mg a day. An occasional patient may require as much as 32 mg a day for adequate relief. It is suggested that dosage be initiated with 4 mg (1 tablet) three times a day and adjusted according to the size and response of the patient.

General

Cyproheptadine has an atropine-like action and, therefore, should be used with caution in patients with:

History of bronchial asthmaIncreased intraocular pressureHyperthyroidismCardiovascular diseaseHypertension

Storage (STORAGE)

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Overdosage (OVERDOSAGE)

Antihistamine overdosage reactions may vary from central nervous system depression to stimulation especially in pediatric patients. Also, atropine-like signs and symptoms (dry mouth; fixed, dilated pupils; flushing, etc.) as well as gastrointestinal symptoms may occur.

If vomiting has not occurred spontaneously, the patient should be induced to vomit with syrup of ipecac.

If patient is unable to vomit, perform gastric lavage followed by activated charcoal. Isotonic or ½ isotonic saline is the lavage of choice. Precautions against aspiration must be taken especially in infants and children.

When life threatening CNS signs and symptoms are present, intravenous physostigmine salicylate may be considered. Dosage and frequency of administration are dependent on age, clinical response, and recurrence after response. (See package circulars for physostigmine products.)

Saline cathartics, as milk of magnesia, by osmosis draw water into the bowel and, therefore, are valuable for their action in rapid dilution of bowel content.

Stimulants should not be used.

Vasopressors may be used to treat hypotension.

The oral LD 50of cyproheptadine is 123 mg/kg, and 295 mg/kg in the mouse and rat, respectively.

Description (DESCRIPTION)

Cyproheptadine HCl, is an antihistaminic and antiserotonergic agent. Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, USP is a white to slightly yellowish crystalline solid, with a molecular weight of 350.89, which is soluble in water, freely soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in ethanol, soluble in chloroform, and practically insoluble in ether. It is the sesquihydrate 4-(5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ylidene)-1-methylpiperidine hydrochloride. The molecular formula of the anhydrous salt is C 21H 21N•HCl and the structural formula of the anhydrous salt is as follows:

C 21H 21N• HCl M.W. 350.89

Cyproheptadine hydrochloride, USP is available for oral administration in 4 mg tablets. Each tablet contains:  Inactives:Lactose Monohydrate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Starch Glycolate and Magnesium Stearate.

Hematologic

Hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia.

Respiratory

Dryness of nose and throat, thickening of bronchial secretions, tightness of chest and wheezing, nasal stuffiness.

How Supplied (HOW SUPPLIED)

Cyproheptadine hydrochloride tablets USP, 4 mg are available as white to off-white color, round flat face tablet with debossed “B137” on one side and scored on the other, containing 4 mg of cyproheptadine HCl packaged in bottles of :

PHARMACIST: Dispense in a well-closed container as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure (as required).

Bottles of 30 tablets: NDC 72789-102-30

Bottles of 100 tablets: NDC 72789-102-01

Genitourinary

Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of cyproheptadine HCl tablets did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy (see WARNINGS, Activities Requiring Mental Alertness).

Integumentary

Allergic manifestation of rash and edema, excessive perspiration, urticaria, photosensitivity.

Miscellaneous

Fatigue, chills, headache, increased appetite/weight gain.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of two have not been established (see CONTRAINDICATIONS, Newborn or Premature Infants, and WARNINGS, Pediatric Patients).

Cardiovascular

Hypotension, palpitation, tachycardia, extrasystoles, anaphylactic shock.

Special Senses

Acute labyrinthitis, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus.

Cns Depressants (CNS Depressants)

Antihistamines may have additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants, e.g., hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, antianxiety agents.

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.

Age 2 to 6 Years (Age 2 to 6 years)

The total daily dosage for pediatric patients may be calculated on the basis of body weight or body area using approximately 0.25 mg/kg/day or 8 mg per square meter of body surface (8 mg/m 2).

The usual dose is 2 mg (½ tablet) two or three times a day, adjusted as necessary to the size and response of the patient. The dose is not to exceed 12 mg a day.

Digestive System

Cholestasis, hepatic failure, hepatitis, hepatic function abnormality, dryness of mouth, epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, jaundice.

Other Conditions

Hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine and other drugs of similar chemical structure.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy (See DRUG INTERACTIONS.)Angle-closure glaucomaStenosing peptic ulcerSymptomatic prostatic hypertrophyBladder neck obstructionPyloroduodenal obstructionElderly, debilitated patients

Adverse Reactions (ADVERSE REACTIONS)

Adverse reactions which have been reported with the use of antihistamines are as follows:

Age 7 to 14 Years (Age 7 to 14 years)

The usual dose is 4 mg (1 tablet) two or three times a day adjusted as necessary to the size and response of the patient. The dose is not to exceed 16 mg a day.

Drug Interactions

MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.

Antihistamines may have additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants, e.g., hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, antianxiety agents.

Pediatric Patients

Overdosage of antihistamines, particularly in infants and young children, may produce hallucinations, central nervous system depression, convulsions, respiratory and cardiac arrest, and death. Antihistamines may diminish mental alertness; conversely, particularly, in the young child, they may occasionally produce excitation.

Pregnancy Category B

Reproduction studies have been performed in rabbits, mice, and rats at oral or subcutaneous doses up to 32 times the maximum recommended human oral dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to cyproheptadine. Cyproheptadine has been shown to be fetotoxic in rats when given by intraperitoneal injection in doses four times the maximum recommended human oral dose. Two studies in pregnant women, however, have not shown that cyproheptadine increases the risk of abnormalities when administered during the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy. No teratogenic effects were observed in any of the newborns. Nevertheless, because the studies in humans cannot rule out the possibility of harm, cyproheptadine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Clinical Pharmacology (CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY)

Cyproheptadine is a serotonin and histamine antagonist with anticholinergic and sedative effects. Antiserotonin and antihistamine drugs appear to compete with serotonin and histamine, respectively, for receptor sites.

Indications and Usage (INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis

Vasomotor rhinitisAllergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foodsMild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema.Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasmaCold urticariaDermatographism

As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

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.

Information for Patients

Antihistamines may diminish mental alertness; conversely, particularly, in the young child, they may occasionally produce excitation. Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

Dosage and Administration (DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION)

DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT.

Each tablet contains 4 mg of cyproheptadine hydrochloride.

Newborn Or Premature Infants (Newborn or Premature Infants)

This drug should notbe used in newborn or premature infants.

Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism

After a single 4 mg oral dose of 14C-labelled cyproheptadine HCl in normal subjects, given as tablets, 2 to 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 detectable amounts of unchanged drug were present in the urine of patients on chronic 12 to 20 mg daily doses. The principle metabolite found in human urine has been identified as a quaternary ammonium glucuronide conjugate of cyproheptadine. Elimination is diminished in renal insufficiency.

Activities Requiring Mental Alertness

Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

Antihistamines are more likely to cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in elderly patients (see PRECAUTIONS, Geriatric Use).

Principal Display Panel 4 Mg Label Text (PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mg Label Text)

Rx only

Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride Tablets USP, 4 mg

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term carcinogenic studies have not been done with cyproheptadine.

Cyproheptadine had no effect on fertility in a two-litter study in rats or a two generation study in mice at about 10 times the human dose.

Cyproheptadine did not produce chromosome damage in human lymphocytes or fibroblasts in vitro; high doses (10 -4M) were cytotoxic. Cyproheptadine did not have any mutagenic effect in the Ames microbial mutagen test; concentrations of above 500 mcg/plate inhibited bacterial growth.


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