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Why Is the Medicine Periactin Used to Increase Appetite?

Periactin, also called cyproheptadine, is a piperidine antihistamine. This drug is used primarily to fight cold symptoms, but it has also been used to stimulate appetite and to treat nausea and vomiting, according to CancerNewsNetwork.org.

  1. Appetite

    • This drug antagonizes serotonin receptors on the appetite portion of the hypothalamus. This may be what causes it to increase appetite in patients.

    Nausea

    • Periactin blocks the central muscarinic receptors. This may reduce nausea and vomiting, making eating and digesting food easier, according to CancerNewsNetwork.org.

    Side Effects

    • Thickening of bronchial secretions may occur with Periactin use, according to the University of Maryland. Headache, dizziness and fatigue are other possible side effects.

    Before Using

    • Tell your doctor if you have glaucoma, asthma, seizures or thyroid issues because these conditions may change the effect of the drug. Tell him about any prescription or nonprescription drugs you take because mixing drugs could cause serious side effects.

    Warning

    • Periactin causes drowsiness, according to MedlinePlus. Do not drive before determining the drug’s effect on you.

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