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What is Cyproheptadine 4 mg used for?

In the pharmaceutical industry, Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride 4 mg is a versatile first-generation antihistamine of the piperidine class. As a pharmacist, you likely recognize it not just for allergy relief, but for its unique ability to antagonize serotonin receptors, which differentiates it from most other antihistamines.

Primary Clinical Uses

  • Appetite Stimulation: This is one of its most common “off-label” uses in many international markets. It is prescribed for children and adults with failure to thrive, malnutrition, or anorexia to promote weight gain.

  • Allergic Reactions: Relieves symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, hay fever, and allergic conjunctivitis.

  • Dermatological Conditions: Highly effective for urticaria (hives), angioedema, and pruritus (itching) associated with skin allergies.

  • Serotonin Syndrome: Utilized as a specific antidote in hospital settings to counteract the effects of “Serotonin Syndrome” caused by an overdose or interaction of serotonergic drugs (like SSRIs).

  • Vascular Headaches: Occasionally used for the prophylaxis (prevention) of migraines and cluster headaches.

Mechanism of Action

Cyproheptadine is a potent antagonist at two distinct receptor sites:

H1-Receptor Antagonism: It competes with free histamine for binding sites on effector cells, preventing the inflammatory response.

5-HT2 Receptor Antagonism: It blocks serotonin receptors in the hypothalamus. This is the mechanism behind its appetite-stimulating effect; by blocking these receptors, it inhibits the “satiety center,” leading to increased hunger.

The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Formulation & Export

From a manufacturing and global trade standpoint, Cyproheptadine 4 mg is a high-volume product with significant B2B demand:

  • Dose Uniformity: With a 4 mg active ingredient, our WHO-GMP manufacturing process focuses on validated blending and granulation to ensure that every tablet in a million-tablet batch meets the exact assay requirements.

  • Formulation Varieties: Beyond the 4 mg tablets, it is frequently manufactured as a 2 mg/5 ml syrup. This is a staple for pediatric weight gain and is a major export item for many Indian firms.

  • Stability for Export: Cyproheptadine is relatively robust, but we utilize Alu-Alu or high-grade PVC/PVDC blister packaging to ensure a 36-month shelf life, especially for export to Zone IVb (hot and humid) regions like Africa and Southeast Asia.

  • B2B Market Positioning: Because of its appetite-stimulating properties, it is often marketed alongside multivitamins or lysine in many emerging markets.