Periactin

What is it?

Composition

Periactin contains the active substance cyproheptadine hydrochloride in a dosage of 4 mg per tablet. This main compound is responsible for the antihistamine and antiserotonin action of the drug, ensuring its effectiveness in the fight against allergic reactions and other conditions associated with increased histamine production.

In addition to the active component, the tablets contain excipients that facilitate their formation and absorption by the body:

• Lactose monohydrate - serves as a filler and facilitates the formation of tablets.
• Sodium carboxymethyl starch (type A) - ensures rapid disintegration of tablets in the stomach.
• Magnesium stearate - used as a lubricant to prevent sticking to equipment.

The composition of the drug is carefully selected to ensure stability and safety during storage and use. If you are allergic to any of the listed components, you must inform your doctor.

How to use?

Periactin should be used strictly as prescribed by the doctor, as the dosage may vary depending on the patients age, condition and purpose of treatment. Standard recommendations suggest using the drug orally, with or without food, with a small amount of water.

Dosage recommendations:

1. For adults and adolescents: the initial dose is 4 mg (1 tablet) 2-3 times a day. The maximum daily dose is no more than 32 mg (8 tablets).
2. For children aged 2 to 6 years: 2 mg (half a tablet) 2-3 times a day. The maximum daily dose is no more than 12 mg.
3. For children aged 7 to 14 years: 4 mg 2-3 times a day. The maximum dose should not exceed 16 mg per day.

Avoid exceeding the recommended doses to avoid side effects. If you accidentally miss a dose, do not double the next dose, but continue using the medicine as scheduled.

How does it work?

Periactin acts as an antihistamine by blocking the H1 histamine receptors that are activated during allergic reactions. This results in reduced inflammation, reduced swelling, and the elimination of symptoms such as itching, runny nose, or watery eyes. Due to this mechanism, the drug helps to effectively combat the manifestations of allergies.

In addition to the antihistamine effect, Periactin has antiserotonin properties. Serotonin can in some cases increase inflammatory processes and reduce appetite. By blocking its receptors, the drug can have an additional anti-inflammatory effect and help increase appetite, which makes it useful in a number of conditions associated with weight loss or decreased nutrition.

This combination of effects makes Periactin not only an effective allergy remedy, but also a drug that is sometimes used for adjuvant therapy in other diseases where it is necessary to reduce the effect of histamine or serotonin.

Indications

Periactin is indicated for the treatment of various allergic and other conditions associated with excessive histamine and serotonin activity. Due to its broad spectrum of action, the drug is used in both standard and adjuvant therapy.

Main indications include:

• Allergic rhinitis, including seasonal and year-round forms.
• Allergic conjunctivitis.
• Urticaria and other skin allergic reactions accompanied by itching.
• Angioedema (Quinckes edema).
• Reactions to insect bites.
• Prevention and treatment of migraines associated with the action of serotonin.
• Decreased appetite associated with various pathological conditions.
• Concomitant therapy for severe allergic reactions after relief of acute manifestations.

Due to the pronounced antihistamine and antiserotonin effect, the drug helps not only to relieve symptoms, but also to prevent their recurrence. It is important that Periactin is prescribed by a doctor, especially if it is to be used to treat unusual conditions.

Contraindications

There are certain limitations to the use of Periactin, and it is important to take them into account to avoid possible complications. Before starting therapy, you should consult with your doctor, especially if you have concomitant diseases or are taking other medications.

Contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine or any of the excipients of the drug.
• Glaucoma (narrow-angle form).
• Acute attack of bronchial asthma.
• Peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum with a tendency to stenosis.
• Hypertrophy of the prostate gland, accompanied by impaired urination.
• Obstruction of the neck of the bladder.
• Simultaneous use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO).
• Breastfeeding period.
• Children under 2 years of age (without specialist approval).

The drug is prescribed with caution to patients with cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and a tendency to drowsiness. Given its antihistamine action, Periactin may enhance the effect of other sedatives, which also requires medical supervision.

Side effects

Like any medication, Periactin can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are related to the antihistamine and sedative effects of the drug, so they may be more pronounced in people who are sensitive to antihistamines.

Common side effects:

• Drowsiness, tiredness, and decreased concentration.
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat.
• Dizziness.
• Increased appetite, which may lead to weight gain.
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort.

Rare side effects:

• Difficulty urinating.
• Increased excitability, especially in children.
• Allergic reactions, such as skin rash or swelling.
• Vision changes, including blurred vision.

If any side effects occur, especially difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or a severe allergic reaction, stop taking the medicine immediately and contact your doctor. In most cases, adverse effects resolve after stopping use of Periactin.