Cyproheptadine Hcl

Antihistamine and serotonin antagonist for equine PPID management (historical); appetite stimulant in cats; antipruritic. First-generation antihistamine and serotonin antagonist (cyproheptadine HCl). Mechanism: competitive antagonist at H1 histamine and 5-HT2 serotonin receptors; also has anticholinergic and calcium channel blocking properties. Appetite stimulation occurs via 5-HT2C receptor antagonism in the hypothalamus. CNS sedation. Historical use in PPID horses via anti-serotonergic pituitary effect. Key information Antihistamine/antiserotonergic. Store at room temperature. May cause sedation and increased appetite. Used in cats for serotonin syndrome and appetite stimulation. Do not use in horses with PPID — may worsen insulin dysregulation.

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. or without. Tablets may be crushed for cats. Administer at consistent times. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

Sedation, CNS depression (H1 and anticholinergic effects). Increased appetite (desired effect for appetite stimulation). Anticholinergic effects: urinary retention, dry mouth, GI hypomotility. Horses: excitability/agitation reported (paradoxical). CNS: agitation in some cats.

For animals Horses: may cause CNS excitability — monitor behavior. Cats: appetite stimulation effective but sedation variable. Avoid in patients with glaucoma or urinary obstruction. Drug interaction: reverses the antihistaminic effects of first-generation antihistamines and serotonin-mediated effects of SSRIs/MAOIs. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Antihistamine/serotonin antagonist — may cause drowsiness if ingested. Keep out of reach of children.

Contact your veterinarian. Cyproheptadine overdose causes anticholinergic signs: rapid heart rate, dry mouth, dilated pupils, sedation. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.