(cyproheptadine · DailyMed)
DYNEWELL SYRUP
CYPROHEPTADINE HCL+L-LYSINE+PROTEOLYSED PROTEOLYSED EXTRACT
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.
Ask about this medicine
Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.
Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:48:42 · updated 2026-09-18 04:00:09
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 cyproheptadine
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.
About extract
This medicine is an extract that is used for various health conditions.
What it treats
- general health improvement
- nutritional support
How it works
The extract may provide health benefits by supplying essential nutrients or compounds that support bodily functions.
Who it's for
This medicine is suitable for individuals looking to improve their overall health or address specific nutritional needs.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About l-lysine
L-lysine is an essential amino acid that your body needs to build proteins and support various bodily functions.
What it treats
- cold sores (herpes simplex)
- supporting immune function
- promoting muscle recovery
How it works
L-lysine helps your body produce proteins and is important for growth and maintenance.
Who it's for
L-lysine is suitable for adults and children who need extra support for their immune system or muscle recovery.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About proteolysed
Proteolysed is a substance that is broken down into smaller parts. It is often used to assist with various health conditions.
What it treats
- helping with digestion
- supporting recovery from injury
How it works
It helps the body to break down proteins into smaller units, making them easier to absorb and use.
Who it's for
It is suitable for individuals needing support with digestion or recovery.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
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: extract
Extracts are concentrated preparations obtained from plants, herbs, or other natural sources through various extraction methods such as solvent extraction, steam distillation, or cold pressing. They are used for their therapeutic properties in herbal medicine and can contain a variety of bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, and essential oils. The specific effects and uses of an extract depend on its source material and the compounds it contains.
Indications
- General wellness support
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Antioxidant activity
- Digestive aid
- Support for immune function
Dosage
Children: Paediatric dosing should be determined based on the specific extract and its intended use. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for accurate dosing.
Adults: Dosage varies widely depending on the specific extract and formulation. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.
Mechanism of action
The mechanism of action of herbal extracts can vary significantly based on their constituents. Commonly, they exert their effects through multiple pathways including modulation of neurotransmitter systems, interference with inflammatory processes, or direct antioxidant activity. Some extracts may activate certain receptors or inhibit enzymes related to disease processes.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of extracts is complex due to the presence of multiple active compounds which can have synergistic or antagonistic effects. These compounds may influence cellular signaling pathways, alter gene expression, or modulate immune response. The overall pharmacological profile is determined by the specific composition of the extract, its concentration, and the biological target it interacts with.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of extracts involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the active compounds. Generally, herbal extracts are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability influenced by factors such as formulation, the presence of food, and individual metabolic differences. Compounds may undergo hepatic metabolism, and elimination can occur through urine or feces, depending on their chemical nature.
Pregnancy
Consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety of the extract during pregnancy has not been established.
Breast-feeding
Consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety of the extract during breastfeeding has not been established.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
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: llysine
BNF-referencedLysine is an essential amino acid that plays a critical role in protein synthesis and various metabolic functions. It is vital for the production of proteins, collagen, hormones, and enzymes. Additionally, lysine is known to inhibit the replication of herpes simplex virus when present in higher concentrations relative to L-arginine, providing potential therapeutic benefits for managing herpes infections. It also aids in calcium absorption and is necessary for proper growth and development.
Indications
- Herpes simplex virus infections
- Lysine deficiency
- Support in calcium absorption
- Collagen synthesis
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific adult dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Lysine inhibits the replication of herpes simplex virus by altering the amino acid ratio in tissues, particularly decreasing the availability of L-arginine which the virus requires for replication. Additionally, lysine is involved in protein synthesis where it binds with transfer RNA (tRNA) to facilitate the translation process that produces specific proteins.
Pharmacodynamics
Lysine ensures the adequate absorption of calcium, supports collagen formation which is essential for bone, cartilage, and connective tissues, and aids in the production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes. A deficiency in lysine can lead to various health issues including fatigue, concentration difficulties, irritability, and reproductive problems.
Pharmacokinetics
Lysine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is distributed throughout the body and is primarily excreted via the kidneys. The half-life and detailed metabolic pathways of lysine can vary based on individual physiological conditions and dietary intake.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Precautions
- Use with caution in individuals with kidney disease
- Monitor for gastrointestinal effects
Pregnancy
L-lysine is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but clinical advice should be sought.
Breast-feeding
L-lysine is excreted in breast milk, but is typically deemed safe during breastfeeding.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Capsules
- Powder
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: proteolysed
Proteolysed refers to substances that have undergone proteolysis, a biochemical process where proteins are broken down into smaller peptides or amino acids by the action of enzymes known as proteases. This process is fundamental in various physiological functions, including digestion, cell signaling, and immune responses. Proteolysed products are often used in dietary supplements, enzyme replacement therapies, and in the treatment of certain medical conditions related to protein metabolism.
Indications
- Protein malnutrition
- Impaired protein digestion
- Certain gastrointestinal disorders
- Supportive therapy in post-surgical recovery
- Dietary supplementation for athletes
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific product guidelines as doses can vary widely based on formulation and clinical condition.
Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines as doses can vary widely based on formulation and clinical condition.
Mechanism of action
Proteolysed substances work primarily by providing the body with smaller peptides and amino acids that can be easily absorbed and utilized for various biological functions. The breakdown products can enhance protein digestion, improve amino acid bioavailability, and support metabolic processes. In therapeutic applications, proteolysed enzymes can aid in the digestion of dietary proteins and assist in conditions where protein absorption is impaired.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of proteolysed products involve their interaction with the body's digestive and metabolic systems. By breaking down proteins into absorbable units, they can improve nutrient absorption, enhance protein synthesis, and modulate metabolic pathways. The efficiency of these products can vary based on their source, the presence of other dietary components, and individual physiological conditions.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of proteolysed products largely depend on the specific peptides or amino acids produced and their route of administration. Generally, after ingestion, proteolysed substances are further processed in the gastrointestinal tract, where proteases continue to break them down into free amino acids. These amino acids are then absorbed through the intestinal lining and enter the bloodstream, where they are distributed to tissues for various metabolic functions. The onset of action may vary, typically occurring within hours after ingestion, depending on the formulation and individual digestive efficiency.
Pregnancy
Proteolysed products should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
Breast-feeding
Use with caution during breastfeeding, as it is unknown whether proteins are excreted in human milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ensure the container is tightly closed to prevent moisture ingress.
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: l-lysine
PubChem CID 5962Molecular formula: C6H14N2O2
Mechanism of action
Proteins of the herpes simplex virus are rich in L-arginine, and tissue culture studies indicate an enhancing effect on viral replication when the amino acid ratio of L-arginine to lysine is high in the tissue culture media. When the ratio of L-lysine to L-arginine is high, viral replication and the cytopathogenicity of herpes simplex virus have been found to be inhibited. L-lysine may facilitate the absorption of calcium from the small intestine. Amino acids are selected for protein synthesis by binding with transfer RNA (tRNA) in the cell cytoplasm. The information on the amino acid sequence of each individual protein is contained in the sequence of nucleotides in the messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules, which are synthesized in the nucleus from regions of DNA by the process of transcription. The mRNA molecules then interact with various tRNA molecules attached to specific amino acids in the cytoplasm to synthesize the specific protein by linking together individual amino acids; this process, known as translation, is regulated by amino acids (e.g., leucine), and hormones. Which specific proteins are expressed in any particular cell and the relative rates at which the different cellular proteins are synthesized, are determined by the relative abundances of the different mRNAs and the availability of specific tRNA-amino acid combinations, and hence by the rate of transcription and the stability of the messages. From a nutritional and metabolic point of view, it is important to recognize that protein synthesis is a continuing process that takes place in most cells of the body. In a steady state, when neither net growth nor protein loss is occurring, protein synthesis is balanced by an equal amount of protein degradation. The major consequence of inadequate protein intakes, or diets low or lacking in specific indispensable amino acids relative to other amino acids (often termed limiting amino acids), is a shift in this balance so that rates of synthesis of some body proteins decrease while protein degradation continues, thus providing an endogenous source of those amino acids most in need. /Amino acids/ The mechanism of intracellular protein degradation, by which protein is hydrolyzed to free amino acids, is more complex and is not as well characterized at the mechanistic level as that of synthesis. A wide variety of different enzymes that are capable of splitting peptide bonds are present in cells. However, the bulk of cellular proteolysis seems to be shared between two multienzyme systems: the lysosomal and proteasomal systems. The lysosome is a membrane-enclosed vesicle inside the cell that contains a variety of proteolytic enzymes and operates mostly at acid pH. Volumes of the cytoplasm are engulfed (autophagy) and are then subjected to the action of the protease enzymes at high concentration. This system is thought to be relatively unselective in most cases, although it can also degrade specific intracellular proteins. The system is highly regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucocorticoids, and by amino acids. The second system is the ATP-dependent ubiquitin-proteasome system, which is present in the cytoplasm. The first step is to join molecules of ubiquitin, a basic 76-amino acid peptide, to lysine residues in the target protein. Several enzymes are involved in this process, which selectively targets proteins for degradation by a second component, the proteasome. /Amino acids/
Pharmacodynamics
Insures the adequate absorption of calcium; helps form collagen ( which makes up bone cartilage & connective tissues); aids in the production of antibodies, hormones & enzymes. Recent studies have shown that Lysine may be effective against herpes by improving the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth. A deficiency may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss, anemia & reproductive problems.
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.
- ABLANC CREAM · Simba Pharmaceuticals
- APETAMIN (CYPROHEPTADINE, LYSINE AND VITAMINS SYRUP) · Harleys
- APITUP P LIQUID · Agrilords
- APPEVITE FORTE · Sphinx Pharmaceuticals
- BECOACTIN SYRUP · Harleys
- BECOACTIN SYRUP · Meyer Organic Pvt Ltd
- ACTILYF COMBINATION PRODUCT CAPSULES
- CHESTCOF COMBINATION PRODUCT COUGH LOZENGES
- COFEX COMBINATION PRODUCT TABLET
- COFEX COMBINATION PRODUCT TABLETS
- COFRID COMBINATION PRODUCT TABLET
- CYPROL 2/150MG/5ML SYRUP