What is Periactin, and what is it used for?
Periactin is an oral antihistamine used for treating various types of allergic reactions and the skin manifestations of allergic reactions.
Its off-label uses (non-FDA approved) include:
- Spasticity associated with spinal cord injury
- Prevention of migraine headaches
Periactin works by blocking the effects of histamine and is classified as a first generation antihistamine. Histamine is released by cells of the body during several types of allergic reactions and, to a lesser extent, during some viral infections, such as the common cold.
When the histamine binds to receptors on other cells, it stimulates changes within the cells that lead to the release of chemicals that cause sneezing, itching, and increased production of mucus. Antihistamines compete with histamine for cell receptors and bind to the receptors without stimulating the cells. In addition, they prevent histamine from binding and stimulating the cells.
Periactin also blocks the action of acetylcholine (anticholinergic effect) and serotonin, two neurotransmitters that nerves and muscles use to communicate with one another, and it causes drowsiness.
What are the side effects of Periactin?
Side effects of include:
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Dizziness
- Restlessness
- insomnia
- Tremors
- Euphoria
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Delirium
- Seizures
- Psychosis
- Paresthesia
- Weakness
- Palpitation
- Fast heart beat
- Palpitation
- High or low blood pressure
- Anorexia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Cholestasis
- Hepatitis
- Eczema
- Itching
- Blurred vision
- Double Vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Urinary retention
- Wheezing
- Nasal stuffiness
Other side effects that have been reported include:
- Vertigo
- Sweating
- Chills
- Early menses
- Headache
- impotence
- Dryness of mouth, nose, and throat
- Facial dyskinesia
- Tightness of chest
Antihistamines may reduce mental alertness, however, they may occasionally produce excitation in children.
Patients should be warned about driving a car or operating machinery and participating in other activities that require mental alertness and motor coordination.
Antihistamines may add to the sedative effects of alcohol, hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and anti-anxiety drugs.
Antihistamines are more likely to cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension (low blood pressure) in elderly patients.
What is the dosage for Periactin?
- The recommended starting dose for adults is 4 mg every 8 hours.
- The dose range is 4 mg to 20 mg daily.
- Some patients may require up to 32 mg day. The dose should not exceed 0.5 mg/kg daily.
- The dosage for children 7 to 14 years of age should receive 4 mg 3 times daily. The maximum dose is 16 mg daily.
- Children 2 to 6 years old are treated with 2 mg three times daily and the maximum dose is 12 mg a day.
- The total daily dose may also be calculated by weight (0.25 mg/kg/day) or surface area (8 mg/m2).

QUESTION
Allergies can best be described as: See AnswerWhich drugs interact with Periactin?
Periactin adds to the sedating effects of alcohol and other drugs like benzodiazepines, narcotics, tricyclic antidepressants, and high blood pressure (hypertension) medications, that can cause sedation.
1. Benzodiazepines is a class of drugs of anti-anxiety medications, for example:
2. Narcotics is a drug class of drugs of pain medications and its derivatives, for example:
- oxycodone and acetaminophen (Percocet)
- hydrocodone and acetaminophen (Vicodin)
- guaifenesin with hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- codeine, propoxyphene (Darvon)
3. Tricyclic's is a class of drugs of antidepressants, for example:
4. Certain antihypertensive medications, for example:
Periactin also can intensify the drying effects on moist tissues (such as the eye or mouth) of other medications with anticholinergic properties, for example, dicyclomine (Bentyl) and bethanechol (Urecholine), and probanthine.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Studies in women who are pregnant have not shown that Periactin harms the fetus during the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy. However, these studies do not exclude the possibility of harm. Periactin should be used during pregnancy only if it is clearly needed.
- It is not known whether Periactin is excreted in human milk.
What else should I know about Periactin?
- This drug is available in the following preparations: Tablets: 4 mg; Oral Solution: 2 mg/5 ml
- Store this medication should at room temperature, 15 C - 30 C (59 F - 86 F).
- The FDA approved cyproheptadine in October 1961.
Health News
- After Salmonella Cases Double in a Week, Cantaloupe Recall Expanded
- COVID Vaccines Curbed Pandemic-Linked Surge in Preemie Births
- Could a 'Brain Coach' Help Folks at Higher Risk for Alzheimer's?
- Early Promise for Stem Cell Therapy to Curb MS
- Internet Poses No Threat to Mental Health, Major Study Finds
More Health News ยป
Summary
Periactin (cyproheptadine) is an antihistamine used to treat allergic reactions by blocking the histamines. The drug is used for various types of allergic reactions including skin reactions. Off-label (non-FDA approved) uses include spasticity associated with spinal cord injury and preventing migraine headaches. Review side effects, dosage, drug and supplement interactions, and pregnancy and breastfeeding safety information prior to taking this drug. Periactin, the brand name, has been discontinued.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
16 Surprising Headache Triggers and Tips for Pain Relief
Do you have frequent headaches? Learn the most common headache triggers for tension headaches, sinus headaches, cluster headaches...
-
Skin Problems: Skin Conditions Below the Waist
Skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and allergies may produce redness and other symptoms. See your dermatologist right...
-
Migraine or Tension Headache? Symptoms, Triggers, Treatments
What does a migraine headache feel like compared to a tension headache? Learn to spot migraine symptoms early, how to identify...
-
Skin & Health: How Your Skin Reveals Health Problems
Skin problems are often the first signs of serious underlying health problems. Diabetes, lupus, hepatitis C and lung cancer are...
-
Common Allergies: Symptoms and Signs
What are allergies? Pollen, food, perfumes, and many more things can provoke allergy symptoms. Allergies are an overreaction of...
-
Picture of Tattoo Allergic Reaction
Tattoo Allergic Reaction. It is possible to have reactions to the inks or the metals in the needles used in tattoos, causing...
-
Skin Conditions Quiz: Common Skin Diseases
Could you identify a scabies infestation? Take the Skin Diseases Pictures Quiz and learn to identify common conditions that...
-
Headaches Quiz: Learn About Headache Pain
If you're plagued with headaches, our Headaches Quiz may help you identify causes, triggers, symptoms, and treatments for...
-
10 Signs Your Allergies Are Out of Control
Learn 10 signs your allergies are out of control. See these surprising allergy symptoms and find out how to get relief for...
-
Picture of Skin
The skin is the largest organ of the body, with a total area of about 20 square feet. See a picture of the Skin and learn more...
-
When Animal (Allergies) Attack: Pet Allergy Symptoms, Treatment
How do you control and relieve pet allergies? How do you prevent pet allergies? Learn dog and cat allergy symptoms, the cause of...
-
Pictures of Allergy Relief Tips at Home: AC Filters, Electronic Air Cleaners, and More
Learn how a combination of medication, preventing allergens, and allergy relief products can reduce allergy symptoms and help you...
-
Children's Health: 11 Pictures of Common Skin Rashes
What causes skin rashes in children? See which chemicals in your home could be causing your child's skin rash, irritated skin,...
-
Nasal Irrigation: Natural Relief for Cold & Allergy Symptoms
Clogged sinuses and congestion bothering you? Nasal irrigation can relieve sinus symptoms associated with colds and allergies....
-
12 Natural Ways to Defeat Allergies
Allergies making you miserable? WebMD shows you a dozen natural allergy treatments, from fresh fruit and vitamin D to acupuncture...
-
Nasal Allergy Attack: Causes, Triggers, Treatments
Nasal allergies are a common problem that affects millions of people. An allergist can recommend the best allergy nasal sprays...
-
Migraine Headaches: 14 Non-Drug Treatments for Migraines
Learn about 14 non-drug treatments for migraines. Acupuncture, biofeedback and massage therapy are among this list of non-drug...
-
Home Allergy Quiz: Is Your Home Allergy-Proof?
Take this home allergy quiz and test your knowledge on allergens, dust mites, pollens and more to see how allergy-proof your home...
-
Allergies: Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction
Find out from WebMD's slideshow how to tell if you or someone near you is having a severe allergic reaction.
Related Disease Conditions
-
How Long Does an Allergic Reaction Last?
Allergic reactions may last for varying lengths of time. They may take a few hours to a few days to disappear. If the exposure to the allergen continues, such as during a spring pollen season, allergic reactions may last for longer periods such as a few weeks to months.
-
Hives (Urticaria)
Hives, also called urticaria, is a raised, itchy area of skin. Most often the cause of hives is unknown. Sometimes it is a sign of an allergic reaction to food or medications, but the cause of the allergy (the allergen) is unknown. Dermatographism and swelling (angioedema) may accompany hives. Treatment to get rid of hives and alleviate symptoms typically includes antihistamines.
-
What Are the 4 Types of Allergic Reactions?
Allergists recognize four types of allergic reactions: Type I or anaphylactic reactions, type II or cytotoxic reactions, type III or immunocomplex reactions and type IV or cell-mediated reactions.
-
Allergy (Allergies)
An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. When these allergens come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to it. It is estimated that 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, and stomach. Common allergic disorders include hay fever, asthma, allergic eyes, allergic eczema, hives, and allergic shock.
-
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Pinkeye, also called conjunctivitis, is redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids and the membranes covering the whites of the eyes. These membranes react to a wide range of bacteria, viruses, allergy-provoking agents, irritants, and toxic agents.
-
Headache
Headaches can be divided into two categories: primary headaches and secondary headaches. Migraine headaches, tension headaches, and cluster headaches are considered primary headaches. Secondary headaches are caused by disease. Headache symptoms vary with the headache type. Over-the-counter pain relievers provide short-term relief for most headaches.
-
Eczema
Eczema refers to skin inflammation. There are many different types of eczema that produce symptoms and signs that range from oozing blisters to crusty plaques of skin. Treatment varies depending upon the type of eczema the person has.
-
Migraine Headache
Migraine headache is a type of headache associated with a sensitivity to light, smells, or sounds, eye pain, severe pounding on one side of the head, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. The exact cause of migraine headaches is not known. Triggers for migraine headaches include certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, strong stimuli (loud noises), and oversleeping. Treatment guidelines for migraines include medicine, pain management, diet changes, avoiding foods that trigger migraines, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and exercising regularly. Prevention of migraine triggers include getting regular exercise, drinking water daily, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger foods.
-
What Gets Rid of Headaches Quickly?
Headaches are a common complaint for many people. There are many types of headaches such as migraine, tension, cluster, and the general run of the mill headache. These 17 natural home remedies -- for example, exercise, meditation, hydration, yoga, caffeine, essential oils such as lavender and butterbur, herbs, and supplements like magnesium -- can soothe and relieve some headaches.
-
Eye Allergy
Eye allergy (or allergic eye disease) are typically associated with hay fever and atopic dermatitis. Medications and cosmetics may cause eye allergies. Allergic eye conditions include allergic conjunctivitis, conjunctivitis with atopic dermatitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, and giant papillary conjunctivitis. Dry eye, tear-duct obstruction, and conjunctivitis due to infection are frequently confused with eye allergies. Eye allergies may be treated with topical antihistamines, decongestants, topical mast-cell stabilizers, topical anti-inflammatory drugs, systemic medications, and allergy shots.
-
Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
-
Carcinoid Syndrome (Tumor)
A carcinoid tumor is a tumor that develops from enterochromaffin cells. The important characteristic of carcinoid tumors that sets them apart from other gastrointestinal tract tumors, is their potential to cause the carcinoid syndrome. Local symptoms may include abdominal pain, intestinal bleeding, flushing., gastrointestinal bleeding, and diarrhea. Often, symptoms of the carcinoid syndrome can be more devastating than the local symptoms. There are many options for the treatment of carcinoid tumors and carcinoid syndrome.
-
Cold, Flu, Allergy Treatments
Before treating a cold, the flu, or allergies with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, it's important to know what's causing the symptoms, which symptoms one wishes to relieve, and the active ingredients in the OTC product. Taking products that only contain the medications needed for relieving your symptoms prevents ingestion of unnecessary medications and reduces the chances of side effects.
-
Are Hives (Urticaria) Contagious?
Hives are not contagious are triggered by an allergic response to a substance. Symptoms and signs of hives include a raised, itchy red rash on the skin. An individual should seek medical care for hives if he or she develops dysphagia, wheezing, shortness of breath, or throat tightening.
-
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
Primary sclerosing cholangitis or PSC is a disease of the liver. The cause of PSC is not known. Symptoms may include itching, fatigue, jaundice, fever, and confusion. The only treatment for Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a liver transplant.
-
What Is Allergic Cascade?
The allergic cascade refers to allergic reactions that happen in the body in response to allergens. A variety of immune cells and chemical messengers participate in the allergic cascade. Symptoms of the allergic cascade range from mild swelling and itching to full-blown anaphylactic shock. Allergen avoidance and medications are used to prevent or treat allergies.
-
Allergy Treatment Begins at Home
Avoiding allergy triggers at home is one of the best ways to prevent allergy symptoms. Controlling temperature, humidity, and ventilation are a few ways to allergy-proof the home. Cleaning, vacuuming, and using HEPA air filters also helps control allergies.
-
What Are the Best Treatments for Allergic Conjunctivitis?
Learn what medical treatments can ease allergic conjunctivitis symptoms and help speed up your eye allergy recovery.
-
Sinus Infection vs. Allergies
Both sinus infections and allergies (allergic rhinitis) cause symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose and fatigue. Sinus infection (known as sinusitis) is inflammation of the sinuses, caused by infection from bacteria, viruses, and/or fungi (molds). Allergic rhinitis occurs when certain allergies cause nasal symptoms. When a person with allergies breathes in an allergen, such as pollen, dust, or animal dander, symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, itching, sneezing, and fatigue occur.
-
Is Pinkeye Contagious?
Pinkeye (conjunctivitis) is inflammation of the conjunctiva. Whether pinkeye is contagious depends upon what is causing the irritation. With pinkeye, people may experience swollen eyelids, a pinkish color in the whites of the eyes, eye discharge, photophobia, increased tear production, and itching.
-
What Causes Allergy Flare-ups?
During certain seasons, allergies can make you miserable. Learn what causes allergy flare-ups during spring and summer.
-
What Are Typical Seasonal Allergy Symptoms?
Typical seasonal allergy symptoms include a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, congestion, and a sore throat.
-
What Is the Difference Between Allergy and Hay Fever?
Hay fever is a type of allergy that occurs in response to specific allergens and typically lasts for months. Learn more about allergies vs. hay fever.
-
COVID-19 vs. Allergies
Though there is some overlap in allergy and COVID-19 signs and symptoms there are also significant differences. Symptoms that they have in common include headache, fatigue, tiredness, shortness of breath, wheezing, and sore throat. Fever does not occur with allergies but is one of the defining symptoms of COVID-19 infections.
-
What Does an Allergic Reaction Bump Look Like?
Hives due to allergic reactions appear as reddish or raised bumps or welts. Check out the center below for more medical references on allergic reactions, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.
-
What Are Typical Allergy Symptoms?
Allergy symptoms differ depending on the type of allergy and body part involved. For example, food allergies may cause different symptoms than nasal allergies or eye allergies. The severity of symptoms may also vary, ranging from mild irritation to a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.
-
Should I Exercise Outside if I Have Allergies?
An allergy is a condition in which the immune system overresponds to a foreign substance. With the right treatment and precautions, you can completely eliminate allergy flare-ups during your outdoor workout.
-
Can Fall Allergies Cause Sinus Headaches?
Fall allergies can cause symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and sinus headache. Learn more about causes, treatment, and prevention of fall allergies.
Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
Prevention & Wellness
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.