SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, loss of coordination, upset stomach, constipation, increased appetite, weight gain, thickening of mucus in the nose/throat, or dry mouth/throat/nose may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (e.g., unusual excitement, confusion, hallucinations), fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating, seizures.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, unusual tiredness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Read the Cyproheptadine (cyproheptadine hydrochloride) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking cyproheptadine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: glaucoma (narrow-angle), stomach problems (e.g., peptic ulcer, stomach/intestinal obstruction), urinary problems (e.g., enlarged prostate, bladder obstruction).

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, glaucoma, overactive thyroid, heart disease, high blood pressure, seizure disorder, kidney problems.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

To minimize dizziness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position.

The elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness and dizziness.

Do not use this drug in newborn or premature infants. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially unusual excitement and seizures.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the nursing infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.