Apetar
Generic Name
Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Apetar (Cyproheptadine) is an antihistamine that also acts as an appetite stimulant. It is used to treat allergic conditions and to increase appetite in conditions where weight gain is desired.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For appetite stimulation: 4 mg, 2-3 times daily, or as directed by physician. For allergic conditions: Initially 4 mg three times a day. Dosage may range from 4-20 mg/day, not exceeding 0.5 mg/kg/day.
Elderly
Lower doses may be required due to increased susceptibility to side effects, especially sedation and anticholinergic effects.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dose reduction may be necessary due to reduced excretion.
How to Take
Administer orally with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk.
Mechanism of Action
Cyproheptadine acts as a potent antagonist of H1-histamine receptors and also has serotonin antagonist properties. Its appetite-stimulating effect is believed to be mediated by its antagonism of serotonin receptors (specifically 5-HT2C) in the hypothalamus.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action for antihistaminic effects is typically within 15-30 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the urine (about 40%) and feces (about 2-20%) as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 16 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to cyproheptadine or any component of the formulation.
- •Newborn or premature infants.
- •Nursing mothers.
- •Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, stenosing peptic ulcer, pyloroduodenal obstruction, or bladder neck obstruction.
- •Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Drug Interactions
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Prolongation and intensification of anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics)
Enhanced CNS depression, including drowsiness and sedation.
Anticholinergics (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, atropine)
Increased anticholinergic effects, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia, dry mouth, fixed dilated pupils, flushing, gastrointestinal symptoms, and in severe cases, central nervous system depression, cardiovascular collapse, and death. Management is primarily supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Not recommended for use in nursing mothers as antihistamines may be excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse reactions in infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, depending on storage conditions.
Availability
Available in all pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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