(cyproheptadine · DailyMed)
CYPRO B PLUS SYRUP
Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride USP, Thiamine…
What it does
Cyproheptadine is a sedating antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms and other conditions.
Commonly used for: allergic reactions, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), sneezing, runny nose …
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source this medicineRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-08-27 13:10:40 · updated 2026-10-20 02:08:00
Drug Interactions
2Pharmacodynamic Warnings
Cyproheptadine appears in TABLE 10: Drugs with antimuscarinic effects
Cyproheptadine appears in TABLE 11: Drugs with CNS depressant effects
Severe (1)
Metyrapone - decreases effects
Cyproheptadine decreases the effects of metyrapone. Avoid.
Unknown (1)
Fenfluramine - decreases efficacy
Cyproheptadinemightdecreasetheefficacyoffenfluramine. rTheoretical
Data from BNF 85 (British National Formulary). This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Matched via: exact
About this medicine
Cyproheptadine is a sedating antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms and other conditions.
What it treats
- allergic reactions
- hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
- sneezing
- runny nose
- itchy eyes
- appetite stimulation
How it works
It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children who need relief from allergies or increased appetite.
Drug class
Antihistamines, sedating
Cautions
- • Avoid using with medications that have similar effects on the body, like those that cause dry mouth or blurred vision.
- • Be cautious if you're taking medications that make you sleepy or affect your central nervous system.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Thiamine
BNF-referencedThiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and plays a critical role in energy production. It acts as a coenzyme in several biochemical pathways, particularly in the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA and in the pentose phosphate pathway. Thiamine deficiency can lead to serious health issues, including Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, beriberi, and other neurological disorders. Thiamine is found in various foods such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, and meat.
Indications
- Vitamin B1 deficiency
- Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
- Beriberi
- Isoniazid-induced neuropathy (prophylaxis and treatment)
- Severe depletion or malabsorption of vitamins B and C
Dosage
Adults: For vitamin deficiency: 25–100 mg daily. For severe deficiency: 200–300 mg daily in divided doses. For
Mechanism of action
Thiamine functions primarily as a precursor for several phosphorylated active forms, which act as coenzymes in metabolic pathways. It reduces intracellular protein glycation by redirecting glycolytic flux and supports the synthesis of nucleic acids necessary for cell survival and proliferation. Additionally, thiamine has been shown to inhibit glucose-induced proliferation of endothelial cells, thus possibly playing a role in the modulation of vascular health.
Pharmacodynamics
Thiamine exhibits antioxidant properties and contributes to erythropoiesis, cognitive function, and mood regulation. It has protective effects against oxidative stress, particularly in neuronal tissues, where deficiency can lead to neuronal death due to increased free radical production. Thiamine also modulates glucose metabolism, influencing smooth muscle cell proliferation and potentially impacting the progression of atherosclerosis.
Pharmacokinetics
Thiamine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the jejunum, and is distributed throughout the body, with higher concentrations found in the liver, heart, and brain. It is excreted in urine, and its half-life is relatively short. The vitamin is converted into active forms within tissues, including thiamine diphosphate (TDP), which is the coenzyme form involved in carbohydrate metabolism. The body does not store significant amounts of thiamine, making regular dietary intake essential.
Adverse effects
- Allergic reactions
- Anaphylaxis (rare)
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
Precautions
- Facilities for treating anaphylaxis should be available when parenteral thiamine is administered
- Use with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to thiamine
Pregnancy
Thiamine crosses the placenta but no adverse effects have been reported. Information regarding high doses is limited.
Breast-feeding
Severely thiamine-deficient mothers should avoid breast-feeding as thiamine is present in breast milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Thiamine hydrochloride 20 mg/ml oral solution
- Thiamine hydrochloride 50 mg tablets
- Thiamine hydrochloride 100 mg modified-release tablets
- Thiamine hydrochloride oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: Cyproheptadinehydrochloride
BNF-referencedCyproheptadine hydrochloride is a first-generation antihistamine with anticholinergic and sedative properties. It is primarily used for the symptomatic relief of allergic conditions, including hay fever and urticaria, and is known to stimulate appetite, making it useful in certain clinical contexts such as weight gain in undernourished patients.
Indications
- Allergic conditions
- Hay fever
- Urticaria
- Pruritus
- Appetite stimulation
Dosage
Children: For children aged 6 months to 5 years, the dose is 5-15 mg daily in divided doses, adjusted according to weight, with a maximum of 2 mg/kg per day. For children aged 6-17 years weighing up to 40 kg, the initial dose is 15-25 mg daily in divided doses, adjusted as necessary to a maximum of 2 mg/kg per day. For those weighing 40 kg and above, the initial dose is 15-25 mg daily in divided doses, increased if necessary to 50-100 mg daily.
Adults: Initially, 25 mg daily, taken at night; may be increased if necessary to 25 mg 3-4 times a day. Maximum dose is 32 mg per day.
Mechanism of action
Cyproheptadine acts as a competitive antagonist at histamine H1 receptors, thereby inhibiting the action of histamine, which is responsible for allergic symptoms. Additionally, it may also block serotonin receptors, contributing to its appetite-stimulating effects.
Pharmacodynamics
The drug exhibits sedative effects by crossing the blood-brain barrier, leading to central nervous system depression. It can also produce anticholinergic effects, such as dry mouth and urinary retention, due to its action on muscarinic receptors. The sedative properties can impair the performance of skilled tasks and may be potentiated by alcohol consumption.
Pharmacokinetics
Cyproheptadine is well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes hepatic metabolism. Its elimination half-life is approximately 8-12 hours, and it is excreted primarily in urine. The onset of action is typically within 1-2 hours, with effects lasting for several hours.
Contra-indications
- Acute porphyrias
- Prolonged QT-interval
- Risk factors for QT prolongation
Adverse effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Palpitations
- Tachycardia
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Paradoxical excitability
- Tremor
Interactions
- Antihistamines
- Sedating agents
- Alcohol
Precautions
- Use with caution in the elderly
- Patients with epilepsy
- Prostatic hypertrophy
- Pyloroduodenal obstruction
- Susceptibility to angle-closure glaucoma
- Urinary retention
Pregnancy
Most manufacturers of antihistamines advise avoiding their use during pregnancy; however, there is no evidence of teratogenicity. Use in the latter part of the third trimester may cause adverse effects in neonates.
Breast-feeding
Most antihistamines are present in breast milk in varying amounts; although not known to be harmful, most manufacturers advise avoiding their use in mothers who are breastfeeding.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral suspension
- Tablets (4 mg)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: cyproheptadine
BNF-referencedCyproheptadine is a sedating antihistamine that primarily acts as a competitive antagonist at H1 histamine receptors and serotonin receptors. It is used clinically for its antihistaminic and antiserotonin effects, contributing to its ability to stimulate appetite and manage allergic reactions. Additionally, cyproheptadine exhibits weak anticholinergic properties and moderate central depressant effects.
Indications
- Allergic rhinitis
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Urticaria
- Angioedema
- Anaphylaxis (as adjunct therapy)
- Appetite stimulation in certain conditions
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for appropriate pediatric dosing, as it varies by age and condition. Generally, doses may start at 0.25 mg/kg for younger children, but specific guidelines should be
Adults: The usual adult dose for allergic conditions is 4 mg three times daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 12 mg per day as needed. For appetite stimulation, the starting dose is often 4 mg taken once or twice daily.
Mechanism of action
Cyproheptadine exerts its effects by competing with free histamine and serotonin for binding at their respective receptors. Its action as an H1 blocker is complemented by its antagonism of serotonin at 5-HT2A receptors, particularly influencing the appetite center in the hypothalamus. This dual action accounts for its appetite-stimulating properties and mitigates several pharmacodynamic effects of serotonin.
Pharmacodynamics
Cyproheptadine antagonizes several effects of serotonin and histamine, including bronchoconstriction and vasodepression. Its efficacy in combatting histamine-mediated effects has been established, although the details regarding its role in preventing anaphylactic shock remain unclear, likely linked to its anti-serotonergic activity. The drug's sedative properties arise from its central nervous system effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Cyproheptadine is well-absorbed after oral administration. It is metabolized in the liver, with a variable half-life and is primarily excreted in urine. The onset of action typically occurs within one to two hours, and the duration of action can last up to 12 hours. The pharmacokinetic profile may be influenced by individual metabolic variations.
Adverse effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Increased appetite
Interactions
- cyproheptadine+metyrapone: Severe (decreases effects)
- cyproheptadine+fenfluramine: Unknown (decreases efficacy)
Precautions
- Caution in patients with glaucoma
- Caution in patients with prostate hypertrophy
- Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity
Pregnancy
Cyproheptadine should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Limited data are available on its safety.
Breast-feeding
Cyproheptadine is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when administered to breastfeeding mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Syrup
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: thiaminehydrochloride
Thiamine hydrochloride, also known as vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in carbohydrate metabolism and is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. It is involved in the decarboxylation of alpha-keto acids and the hexose monophosphate shunt, which are vital processes for energy production from carbohydrates.
Indications
- Thiamine deficiency
- Wernicke's encephalopathy
- Beriberi
- Alcoholism-related complications
- Certain metabolic disorders
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information.
Adults: Refer to established clinical guidelines or BNF for specific dosing recommendations.
Mechanism of action
Thiamine is a coenzyme for several important enzymatic reactions, including the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase. It is essential for converting carbohydrates into energy, facilitating the metabolism of glucose, and maintaining normal nerve function.
Pharmacodynamics
Thiamine deficiency leads to impaired carbohydrate metabolism, which can result in neurological and cardiovascular dysfunction. Supplementation with thiamine helps restore normal metabolic function and can alleviate symptoms associated with deficiency, such as Wernicke's encephalopathy and Beriberi. It also plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and in maintaining myelin integrity.
Pharmacokinetics
Thiamine is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1-2 hours after oral administration. It is distributed throughout the body, primarily in the liver, kidneys, and heart. Thiamine is metabolized in the liver to its active form, thiamine pyrophosphate. It has a biological half-life of about 9-18 days and is excreted primarily in the urine. Excess thiamine is excreted, making toxicity rare.
Adverse effects
- Allergic reactions
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
Interactions
- May interact with certain diuretics, leading to altered thiamine levels
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Monitor patients with a history of thiamine deficiency
Pregnancy
Thiamine is considered safe during pregnancy, as it is an essential nutrient.
Breast-feeding
Thiamine is excreted in breast milk, but supplementation is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Thiamine hydrochloride injection
- Thiamine hydrochloride oral tablets
- Thiamine hydrochloride oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: cyproheptadine
PubChem CID 2913Molecular formula: C21H21N
Mechanism of action
Cyproheptadine appears to exert its antihistamine and antiserotonin effects by competing with free histamine and serotonin for binding at their respective receptors. Antagonism of serotonin on the appetite center of the hypothalamus may account for cyproheptadine's ability to stimulate the appetite. CYPROHEPTADINE...IS A SEROTONIN & HISTAMINE ANTAGONIST... ... It is an effective H1 blocker. Cyproheptadine also has prominent 5-H blocking activity on smooth muscle by virtue of its binding to 5-HT2A receptors. ... It has weak anticholinergic activity and possess mild central depressant properties.
Pharmacodynamics
Cyproheptadine has been observed to antagonize several pharmacodynamic effects of serotonin in laboratory animals, including bronchoconstriction and vasodepression, and has demonstrated similar efficacy in antagonizing histamine-mediated effects. The reason for its efficacy in preventing anaphylactic shock has not been elucidated, but appears to be related to its anti-serotonergic effects.
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
Molecular reference: Thiamine
PubChem CID 1130Molecular formula: C12H17N4OS+
Mechanism of action
It is thought that the mechanism of action of thiamine on endothelial cells is related to a reduction in intracellular protein glycation by redirecting the glycolytic flux. Thiamine is mainly the transport form of the vitamin, while the active forms are phosphorylated thiamine derivatives. Natural derivatives of thiamine phosphate, such as thiamine monophosphate (ThMP), thiamine diphosphate (ThDP), also sometimes called thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), thiamine triphosphate (ThTP), and thiamine triphosphate (AThTP), that act as coenzymes in addition to their each unique biological functions. Metabolic control analysis predicts that stimulators of transketolase enzyme synthesis such as thiamin (vitamin B-1) support a high rate of nucleic acid ribose synthesis necessary for tumor cell survival, chemotherapy resistance, and proliferation. Metabolic control analysis also predicts that transketolase inhibitor drugs will have the opposite effect on tumor cells. This may have important implications in the nutrition and future treatment of patients with cancer.
Pharmacodynamics
Thiamine is a vitamin with antioxidant, erythropoietic, cognition-and mood-modulatory, antiatherosclerotic, putative ergogenic, and detoxification activities. Thiamine has been found to protect against lead-induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver and kidney. Thiamine deficiency results in selective neuronal death in animal models. The neuronal death is associated with increased free radical production, suggesting that oxidative stress may play an important early role in brain damage associated with thiamine deficiency. Thiamine plays a key role in intracellular glucose metabolism and it is thought that thiamine inhibits the effect of glucose and insulin on arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation. Inhibition of endothelial cell proliferation may also promote atherosclerosis. Endothelial cells in culture have been found to have a decreased proliferative rate and delayed migration in response to hyperglycemic conditions. Thiamine has been shown to inhibit this effect of glucose on endothelial cells.
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.
- ABYCO SYRUP (Clear syrupy liquid contains Cyproheptadine HCL BP/Thiamine HCL (Vitamin B1) BP/Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) (as a Riboflavin 5 phosphate sodium)/Pyridoxine HCL (Vitamin B6) BP/Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) BP/D-Panthenol (Dexpanthenol) USP 2mg/5mg/2.2mg/5mg/5mg/25mg) · Socomed Pharma
- ABYCO CAPSULES ORAL (Each film-coated tablet contains Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride Eq/Cyproheptadine HCl Anhydrous/Thiamine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B1)/Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)/Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6)/Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) /Calcium Pantothenate 4mg/2mg/2.2mg/1.5mg/1mcg/5mg) · Socomed Pharma
- ABYTONE FORTE CAPSULES (Each hard gelatin capsule contains Cyproheptadine HCL (Anhydrous) BP/Vitamin A (as palmitate) BP/Vitamin D3 BP/Thiamine Hydrochloride BP/Riboflavin BP/Cyanocobalamin BP/Niacinamide BP/Calcium Pantothenate BP/Calcium Lactate BP 4mg/2500IU/200IU/2mg/1mcg/25mg/5mg/100mg/) · Socomed Pharma
- ABYTONE FORTE SYRUP (Each 15 ml contains Cyproheptadine 2mg/5mg/2.2mg/5mg/5mg/25mg/) · Socomed Pharma
- ABYTONE SYRUP (Each 5ml contains Cyproheptadine HCL (Anhydrous) / Vitamin B1 / Vitamin B2 / Vitamin B6 / D-panthenol / Vitamin B3 – 2.0mg / 2.0mg / 2.0mg / 0.75mg / 2.5mg / 22.5 mg Cyproheptadine HCL (Anhydrous) / Vitamin B1 / Vitamin B2 / Vitamin B6 / D-panthenol / Vitamin B3 2.0mg / 2.0mg / 2.0mg / 0.75mg / 2.5mg / 22.5 mg) · Socomed Pharmaceuticals
- ABYVITA CAPSULES (Each capsule contains Cyproheptadine hydrochloride/Thiamine hydrochloride/ Riboflavin/ Pyridoxine hydrochloride/ Cyanocobalamin/ Calcium pantothenate – 4mg/ 2mg/ 2.2mg/ 1.5mg/ 1mcg/ 5mg Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride/Thiamine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B1)/Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)/Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6)/Cynocobalamin (Vitamin B12)/Calcium Pantothenate 4mg/ 2mg/ 2.2mg/ 1.5mg/ 1mcg/ 5mg) · Socomed Pharmceuticals Pvt Limited