✅ Active Ingredient Overview Table:

🔬 Active Ingredient (Generic Name):	Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride
💊 Indication:	Allergic Rhinitis, Vasomotor Rhinitis, Appetite Stimulation, Serotonin Syndrome Adjunct
🇺🇸 US Brand:	Periactin
🏭 Manufacturer:	Cipla Limited (Founded: 1935)
📦 Packaging:	15 Tablets per Strip
🧪 Strength:	4 mg
🚚 Delivery Time:	6–15 days

🌿 What is Cyproheptadine 4 mg (Ciplactin)?

Ciplactin contains Cyproheptadine HCl, a first-generation antihistamine with antiserotonergic properties. It alleviates symptoms of allergic conditions by blocking H1 receptors and can also be used off-label to stimulate appetite and treat serotonin syndrome.

In clinical use, Ciplactin shows rapid onset within 30 minutes, providing relief from sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Its antagonism of 5-HT2 receptors underlies its utility in weight gain protocols for patients with anorexia or cachexia.

For complete prescribing guidance and safety data, refer to the FDA label for Periactin and the Drugs.com monograph. Additional information is available via the NHS Medicines A–Z entry and the WHO Essential Medicines List.

🧬 Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action

Attribute	Detail
Chemical Formula	C21H21ClN2O
Molecular Weight	320.84 g/mol
Bioavailability	~90%
Metabolism	Hepatic (CYP3A4, CYP2D6)
Half-Life	~8 hours

Cyproheptadine’s H1 antagonism reduces allergic symptoms, while 5-HT2 blockade contributes to appetite stimulation and antiserotonin effects.

💡 Indications & Dosing

Condition	Dose
Allergic Rhinitis	4 mg three times daily
Vasomotor Rhinitis	4 mg two to three times daily
Appetite Stimulation (Off-Label)	4–8 mg at bedtime
Serotonin Syndrome Adjunct (Off-Label)	2 mg every 2 hours as needed, up to 12 mg/day

Administer doses with water; may cause sedation—prefer evening dosing for appetite stimulation.

⚠️ Warnings & Side Effects

Common:

Sedation, dizziness
Dry mouth, blurred vision
Increased appetite, weight gain

Serious:

Confusion in elderly
Seizures (rare)
QT prolongation (dose-dependent)

Use caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or cardiovascular disease. Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants.

🏥 Storage Instructions

Store at 20–25°C in original packaging. Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.

🌐 Availability & Purchasing

USA: Prescription-only (Periactin); limited availability.
UK & EU: Prescription required; not widely marketed.
Australia: Prescription and TGA approval required.

Importing from India may lower costs; ensure compliance with local regulations and valid prescription.

🔗 Related Therapies

Mirtazapine 15 mg – appetite stimulant antidepressant.
Ondansetron 4 mg – antiemetic in serotonin syndrome.

🎥 Educational Video on Cyproheptadine

👩‍⚕️ Expert Insight: Dr. Shalini Rao, Allergist

“Cyproheptadine is a versatile agent—effective for allergies and as an appetite stimulant. Sedation is common, so dosing at bedtime often reduces daytime drowsiness.”