Helping Your Child’s Appetite with Cyproheptadine (Periactin)
Information for Parents Starting 4mg Tablets or Suspension
Why Was This Medication Prescribed?
Your child has been prescribed cyproheptadine (brand name: Periactin)
to help improve appetite. This medication can help offset the appetite suppression
that often comes with stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, such as methylphenidate or amphetamines.
What Is Cyproheptadine?
Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine that is also known for its appetite-stimulating effects. It is commonly used in children to help them gain or maintain weight when their appetite is affected by medication or illness.
How to Give This Medication
- Dose: Your child has been prescribed cyproheptadine 4mg tablets or suspension.
- Schedule: This medication is usually given once or twice daily, depending on your child’s needs and your provider’s instructions.
- Timing Tip: It may be most effective when given before a meal, especially lunch or dinner, or at bedtime if it causes drowsiness.
- Swallowing Tip: If your child cannot swallow tablets, ask your pharmacist if it’s safe to crush the tablet and mix it with a small amount of soft food (like applesauce) or your prescribe for the liquid version.
What to Expect
✅ Increased appetite
– Most parents notice a change in appetite within a few days.
✅ Improved weight gain
– Weight changes can be monitored at follow-up visits.
✅ Better mealtime cooperation
– Less mealtime stress may be noticed as appetite improves.
Possible Side Effects
Cyproheptadine is generally well tolerated, but it can cause:
- Drowsiness or fatigue – Especially during the first few days.
- Dry mouth
- Irritability or restlessness (less common)
- Increased sleep – Some children sleep more when starting this medication.
If drowsiness is a problem, giving the medication at bedtime may help.
Important Notes
⚠️ Do not give this medication with Benadryl(which is never recommended). Non-sedating antihistamines, such as Zyrtec or Claritin (or the generic versions) is always preferred.
⚠️ Avoid alcohol and certain cold medications
which may increase side effects.
⚠️ Tell your healthcare provider
if your child has asthma, glaucoma, or other health conditions.
When to Call Your Provider
📞 Contact your child’s provider if:
- You see no improvement in appetite after 1–2 weeks.
- Your child has severe drowsiness, confusion, or mood changes.
- You’re unsure when or how to give the medication.
- You accidentally miss a dose or give too much.
Follow-Up Care
Your provider may want to check your child’s weight, growth, and medication response in the coming weeks. Be sure to:
- Keep a log of food intake if requested.
- Watch for any changes in mood, energy, or sleep.
- Stay in touch if you have concerns about effectiveness or side effects.
Questions?
Reach out to your child’s prescribing provider or pharmacist with any concerns or questions. We’re here to help!
