Diactin
Generic Name
diactin
Manufacturer
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Diactin is an antihistamine that also has antiserotonin and appetite-stimulating properties. It is primarily used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic skin manifestations, and as an adjunctive therapy in anaphylactic reactions. It is also used as an appetite stimulant.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
4 mg three to four times daily. Max: 0.5 mg/kg/day.
Elderly
Start with lower doses and adjust based on response and tolerability.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dosage adjustment may be necessary.
How to Take
May be taken with or without food. To reduce GI upset, take with food or milk.
Mechanism of Action
Diactin acts as a potent histamine H1-receptor antagonist, blocking the effects of histamine. It also has significant serotonin antagonist properties and exhibits anticholinergic and local anesthetic effects. Its appetite-stimulating effect is thought to be related to its antiserotonin activity in the hypothalamus.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 15-60 minutes
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine as metabolites, with some in feces.
Half life
8-16 hours
Absorption
Well absorbed from the GI tract after oral administration.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diactin or other antihistamines
- Newborns or premature infants
- Nursing mothers
- Elderly or debilitated patients
- Patients with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, bladder neck obstruction, pyloroduodenal obstruction, or stenosing peptic ulcer
- Concomitant use with MAO inhibitors
Drug Interactions
MAO Inhibitors
May prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of diactin.
CNS Depressants
Enhanced sedative effects with alcohol, hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers.
Anticholinergics
Increased risk of anticholinergic side effects.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia, blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary retention, hypotension, or hypertension. In children, excitation, hallucinations, convulsions may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and cardiovascular support may be necessary. Do not use stimulants.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Not recommended for nursing mothers as it may be excreted in breast milk and cause drowsiness/irritability in infants.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diactin or other antihistamines
- Newborns or premature infants
- Nursing mothers
- Elderly or debilitated patients
- Patients with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, bladder neck obstruction, pyloroduodenal obstruction, or stenosing peptic ulcer
- Concomitant use with MAO inhibitors
Drug Interactions
MAO Inhibitors
May prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of diactin.
CNS Depressants
Enhanced sedative effects with alcohol, hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers.
Anticholinergics
Increased risk of anticholinergic side effects.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia, blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary retention, hypotension, or hypertension. In children, excitation, hallucinations, convulsions may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and cardiovascular support may be necessary. Do not use stimulants.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Not recommended for nursing mothers as it may be excreted in breast milk and cause drowsiness/irritability in infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA (for Cyproheptadine) / DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support its efficacy and safety for allergic conditions and appetite stimulation.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic blood counts for long-term use (rarely needed).
- Liver function tests if hepatic impairment suspected.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential for drowsiness and to avoid alcohol.
- Consider its appetite stimulant effect when prescribing.
- Monitor for anticholinergic side effects in elderly patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Avoid activities requiring mental alertness (e.g., driving) until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Do not drink alcohol.
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
- For appetite stimulation, consistent use is important.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Engage in moderate physical activity.
- Stay hydrated.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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