Antihistamines like cyproheptadine bring about needful relief from several allergic conditions. These conditions may show up when you inhale pet dander, pollen or dust particles. The drug inhibits the production of histamines, which are substances your body naturally makes. Histamine is the actual cause behind your sneezing or runny nose / watery eyes when you encounter an allergic condition. But, can this drug be taken for nausea or similar abdominal discomforts? It becomes essential to know more about this use prior to commencing your medication plan.
Cyproheptadine is a widely prescribed antihistamine drug. It helps minimize the making of histamine – an anti-allergy substance. As an extended usage, the drug can also help treat an overproduction of a few hormones; in clinical terms – this condition is known as Cushing’s syndrome. In general, cyproheptadine controls the signs related to allergies – such as sneezing, itchiness, inflammation or swelling. You need to know that this med is sold as a tablet and as syrup (i.e., in a liquid form). In a few one-off instances, some people can become allergic to weather conditions; this drug is considered as a remedy for such climate-induced allergic reactions as well as related discomforts.
Safe use of cyproheptadine
Doses of cyproheptadine can be taken in the range of 2 milligrams (mg) to 4 mg within a day. The dosage levels are influenced by your age and body weight. Prior ailments as well as severity of your medical conditions may also determine the strength of your doses as well as frequency of intake. Soon after commencing your treatment plan, you are likely to see some relief from allergies – i.e., sneezing, itchiness, swelling, runny nose or watery eyes. If you are not witnessing any change in your clinical conditions, it is a safe practice to talk to your treating doctor. If you have been taking cyproheptadine as a self-medication drug, consult with a qualified clinical practitioner and / or a pharmacist as quickly as you possibly can.
In case of adults – the standard dose hovers around 4 mg – taken thrice – within a 24-hour timeline. For younger adults, the typical dose is 2 to 3 mg each day. However, for elderly or older people, the dose is never in excess of 2 mg within a day. Higher dosage levels may lead to excessive sluggishness, lethargy, tiredness, sleepiness, etc. – especially in older patients.
Precautions needed prior to taking this med
Those who are living with liver conditions or renal problems must stay away from cyproheptadine. This is mainly because – intake of this drug is likely to aggravate your clinical condition. Also, those who have had prior episodes of convulsions or epileptic fits are advised not to take dosages of this drug – in however minimal doses. Similarly, those with ulcers, internal bleeding or blockages in their intestines must not take this med. Also, needful precautions are required for men who have prostate disorders or other urinary problems.
Can you take cyproheptadine for treating nausea?
The drug is used for the treatment of a condition known as cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS). This condition is marked by incessant spells of nausea and vomiting; you may lose your appetite over a period of time. This is diagnosed mostly among babies, children and in some very rare cases, among adults aged between 27 to 33 years. Other typical signs of CVS include an acute pain in the abdominal region, episodes of dehydration (this may show up as dryness of skin, lips or throat) as well as a few mood related disorders. Cyproheptadine is mainly used for treating nausea and abdominal allergies among children. Always remember that these are off-label uses of this drug.
In some remote instances, pain in abdomen and nausea – showing up mainly due to allergic reactions – are treated by drugs which can induce sleep. Cyproheptadine is known to bring about sleepiness and dizziness. These properties are put to effective use while treating painful episodes of nausea and other similar abdominal problems as well as conditions like fever or pain. As an extended use, this drug is also used for treating sleep related disorders or insomnia. Overdose of this drug – while being used for insomnia – may lead to getting dragged into a deep-sleep or a complete loss of coordination (with similarities to coma). Hence, the dosages are always taken under the supervision and guidance of a qualified medical practitioner.
A few safety measures to be taken while consuming cyproheptadine for treating nausea
You may need to stay aware of a few common discomforts cyproheptadine is capable of causing – especially, when you are taking this med to treat spells of nausea or vomiting. This drug is likely to make you dizzy. In some elderly people, accidental falls as well as impairment of motor function have also been observed. Hence, stay away from driving or operating heavy equipment; in general, never engage in activities that demand a high level of concentration or mental attention.
Never stop taking this med once you see some interim relief from nausea. A sudden stop may lead to recurrence of discomforts and a rebound is likely to be more painful. Hence, talk to your doctor or pharmacist; continue your dosage plan and bring it to a close only after taking the consent of your caregiving team. It is possible to experience acute episodes of headaches. Your doctor may tell you to take more glasses of water. You can also suck ice cubes / candies (sugarless) or use saliva as an alternative.
In sum, cyproheptadine is used for the treatment of a condition called cyclic vomiting syndrome – among younger children. This condition is marked by acute pains in the abdomen, vomiting as well as nausea. Upon encountering this condition, seek clinical guidance from a qualified gastric physician or a child specialist. Dosages are kept at very low level of 2 milligrams (mg) and at times, even less. As the drug may induce extremely high level of dizziness or drowsiness, you are advised to stay away from pursuing adventure sports such as cycling, swimming or jumping. If the side effects – especially, dizziness, drowsiness, etc. – persist for long, talk to your treating doctor on an emergency mode.