CYPROHEPTADINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Cyproheptadine HCl USP, 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 of 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: Cyproheptadine hydrochloride USP is available for oral administration in 4 mg tablets. Inactive ingredients include: lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate. image description

Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis Vasomotor rhinitis Allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods Mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema. Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma Cold urticaria Dermatographism As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

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

Newborn or Premature Infants This drug should not be used in newborn or premature infants. Lactation Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally and for newborns and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers. Other Conditions Hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine and other drugs of similar chemical structure. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy (See DRUG INTERACTIONS ). Angle-closure glaucoma Stenosing peptic ulcer Symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy Bladder neck obstruction Pyloroduodenal obstruction Elderly, debilitated patients Newborn or Premature Infants This drug should not be used in newborn or premature infants. Lactation Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally and for newborns and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers.

Adverse reactions which have been reported with the use of antihistamines are as follows: 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. Integumentary Allergic manifestation of rash and edema, excessive perspiration, urticaria, photosensitivity. Special Senses Acute labyrinthitis, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus. Cardiovascular Hypotension, palpitation, tachycardia, extrasystoles, anaphylactic shock. Hematologic Hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia. Digestive System Cholestasis, hepatic failure, hepatitis, hepatic function abnormality, dryness of mouth, epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, jaundice. Genitourinary Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses. Respiratory Dryness of nose and throat, thickening of bronchial secretions, tightness of chest and wheezing, nasal stuffiness. Miscellaneous Fatigue, chills, headache, increased appetite/weight gain.

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.