Allergies are ways by which your body erects needful defense. Histamines are made when your system perceives a likely risk. These substances bring about defensive reactions like sneezing, itchiness as well as runny nose to keep your body safe from allergens (i.e., allergy-causing substances). Common allergens include pet dander, pollen grains, dirt or dust. Most of these do not seem dangerous; but, once inhaled or exposed to, they can trigger a few medical conditions. Antihistamines are drugs taken for stopping allergic reactions. Cyproheptadine is a widely used med in this genre; you may however need to know what are the likely uses prior to taking this drug.
Your body has a unique colony of cells called mast-cells. Upon sensing a likely exposure to an allergen, your brain signals these cells to make a substance called histamine. These mast-cells store histamines in them. These cells are found in your nose, skin, mouth, lungs, blood and gut. Upon release, histamines are primed to increase the flow of blood to the affected area. As a result, the allergy-prone region is swollen. In the meantime, your immunity system kicks-in and starts repairing the affected part. Drugs which prevent allergic reactions – triggered by the release of histamines – are known as antihistamines.
Cyproheptadine and its uses
Among the class of antihistamines, cyproheptadine is a widely used drug. It is taken under the medical care and supervision of a qualified clinical practitioner. However, this medication is also available as an over the counter drug in some regions. It helps contain the severity of allergic reactions when your body is exposed to allergens. The typical reactions this drug can control / help avoid include skin conditions such as rashes, hives, inflammation, itchiness as well as runny rose, sneezing and watery eyes.
Mode of action of cyproheptadine and safe dosage levels
The chief task of this drug is to inhibit your body from making a certain type of histamines. As an extended benefit, this med can also control the extent your body makes another brain chemical known as serotonin. Though some people take it through self-medication, it is a safe practice to consume it under the clinical supervision and guidance of a qualified caregiver. Your dosage level can depend on multiple variables – key among them are, your gender, age, bodyweight, prior clinical disorders / ailments, severity of your medical problems as well as how well your body responds to the initial doses of this drug.
Side effects of cyproheptadine you need to stay aware of
This drug may cause a few adverse side effects or unwanted reactions; such discomforts include drying of your mouth, blurring of eyesight, excessive levels of drowsiness, feeling dizzy, etc. These discomforts may cease to show up once your system gets used to the active chemicals used in cyproheptadine. However, if one or more of these side effects persist for long – say, for more than 2 to 3 days – it is a safe practice to talk to a physician and /or pharmacist without much delay.
Your caregiver may suggest ways to keep these side effects under control. You may be advised to suck candies (sugar-free) or ice cubes; it is also safe to chew gum or drink water regularly. If you cannot gain access to any of these, you may also use saliva to keep yourself hydrated. Those who are experiencing acute spells of dizziness or drowsiness need to change postures in a slow and steady manner. In such instances, it is unsafe to drive your vehicle or do work on heavy machines.
Serious or very acute discomforts are not common among people who take cyproheptadine. But, if you notice acute side effects such as mood shifts including depression, being confused or having weird thoughts / hallucination, you need to report to a physician at the earliest possible time. In some people, serious reactions such as erratic heartbeats, problems / pain while discharging urine or shakes / tremors are noticed. Upon encountering one of more of these problems, you need to take proper medical support from a professional healthcare setting – like a hospital or a clinic.
Allergies associated with the consumption of cyproheptadine
People who have prior allergies or hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine and its active ingredients must keep their treating physician informed of such conditions. Those who have had prior allergies may encounter inflammation of skin, rashes as well as acute spells of drowsiness / dizziness. In one-off cases, it is likely that some people may develop convulsions, epileptic seizures or fits. You are advised to rush to a hospital upon noticing these effects. In the US, you can call 911 or the helpline of the food and drugs administration (FDA). Those who are living in Canada can either call Health Canada or rush to a poison control center operating closer to where you are living.
You also need to remember that the discomforts listed above do not necessarily form a complete listing. It is likely to experience a few unknown or unlisted side effects soon after starting to take cyproheptadine. In such instances, it is highly recommended to take medical help on an emergency basis. Above all, always note that the caregiver has prescribed this med as its merits far outweigh the risks of side effects or allergic reactions. So, if you have any queries or confusion about how to use cyproheptadine / about the dosage range – it is a good practice to consult with your caregiver and / or pharmacist.
In sum, mast-cells of your body make histamines as a natural reaction to counter the threats of an allergen. Histamines increase blood flow to the affected parts and your immunity system repairs the area which is under attack. Drugs known as antihistamines – of which cyproheptadine forms part of – are widely prescribed to minimize and control these allergic reactions. Dosages of cyproheptadine may vary based on your age, prior illnesses as well as based on how severe is your allergic condition. The reactions to the first few doses of this drug may also play a great role in determining your dosage levels. Care to talk to a qualified physician / pharmacist about your prior ailments and the likely risks of side effects before starting to take cyproheptadine.
Education: Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from the University of Michigan. Experience: Over 8 years of experience writing for health and wellness websites, including WebMD and Healthline, specializing in women’s health and nutrition.
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