Cyproheptadine (Generic)

What is Cyproheptadine?
Cyproheptadine is a medication used to treat multiple conditions in animals. In dogs and cats, it is used as an antihistamine and as a treatment for a disease called serotonin syndrome. In cats, it also works as an appetite stimulant. In horses, it may be used to treat head shaking and Cushing's disease.

Who is it for?
It is for dogs, cats, and horses.

What are the benefits?

How does Cyproheptadine work?
As an antihistamine, Cyproheptadine blocks the action of histamine in the body, thus decreasing the inflammation and itching associated with allergies. It also blocks a chemical in the body called serotonin, which is elevated in serotonin syndrome.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This is a generic medication.

How is it given?
Cyproheptadine tablets are given orally. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Duration of treatment depends on reason for and response to treatment.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
As an appetite stimulant, antihistamine and treatment for serotonin syndrome, Cyproheptadine will generally start to work within several hours, but several days of therapy may be needed to achieve the full effect. In the treatment of horses, it may take much longer to see an effect (weeks to months).

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in tablet form.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Periactin®

Pronunciation
sye-proh-HEP-tuh-deen

Common Drug Name
Cyproheptadine HCl

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Cyproheptadine?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected, and what type of exams and tests will be necessary while your pet is taking Cyproheptadine. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be necessary to treat your pet's condition.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has an enlarged prostate, heart disease, glaucoma, a history of urinary blockage or digestive tract blockage, or could be pregnant.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. Also tell your veterinarian if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Understand what outcome is expected, and if results are not achieved, contact your veterinarian. Monitor for possible side effects.. Cyproheptadine does not cure Cushing's disease, but helps in the management of it. Most horses will need to take Cyproheptadine for their lifetime.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it. Use with caution in animals with liver disease, kidney disease, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, severe cardiac failure, or obstruction of the urinary bladder (problems urinating), or obstruction of the pylorus (junction between the stomach and intestine).

The safety of this medication in pregnant and lactating animals (female animals nursing their young) has not been determined.

What side effects may be seen in pets taking Cyproheptadine?
In dogs: Side effects include dry mouth, constipation, sleepiness, sedation, or increased appetite.

In cats: Side effects include dry mouth, constipation, sleepiness, sedation, or hyperexcitability (agitation). It may stimulate the appetite, and is sometimes used for this effect. Rarely you may see anemia resulting in weakness, pale gums, and lethargy. If you notice these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

In horses: Side effects include depression, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the above side effects. If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of the above signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
In the event of an overdose, may cause increased sleepiness, sedation, hyperexcitability, or seizures; severe drying of the mouth and eyes; rapid heartbeat; fever; inability to urinate; and low blood pressure. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Cyproheptadine?
Consult your veterinarian before using Cyproheptadine with vitamins, supplements, other central nervous system (CNS) depressant drugs such as barbiturates or antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as furazolidone, selegiline (Anipryl), isoniazid, or amitraz (an ingredient in some tick collars, and in Mitaban, a treatment for mange), or flea and tick collars, since interactions may occur.

Discontinue use at least 7 days prior to skin allergy testing.

In horses, Cyproheptadine is a classified drug. Consult your veterinarian and event officials before using Cyproheptadine or any other medication in a performance horse. Not for use in horses intended for food.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet for dogs and cats or horses on this medication.