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What To Do About Confusion And Lightheadedness After Taking Cyproheptadine?

Posted on Thu, 5 Oct 2023

Question: Partner is 71 and in late stage liver failure. Dr. prescribed cyproheptad, generic for periactin, for itching. His back has a fine rash, not red but can feel it is covered in bumps. prescription is for 1 pill 3 times a day. Itching has increased and he seems more confused and lite headed. Could this be a reaction. We increased the dose as itching has increased over the last couple of days. Is there another medication that might help with the itching?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Stop cyroheptadine, change antihistaminic, calamine lotion

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I have gone through your complaints and the confusion and lightheadedness seems to be a side effect of cyproheptadine.
I would recommend him to stop cyroheptadine and Change the antihistaminic.
I would recommend him to take tablet cetrizine 10 mg twice daily.
This won’t cause lightheadedness.
Also apply calamine lotion on the affected areas 2-3 times in a day.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana