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Cyproheptadine overdose

Definition

Cyproheptadine is a type of drug called an antihistamine, which is used to relieve allergy symptoms. Cyproheptadine overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

Poisonous Ingredient

• Cyproheptadine

Where Found

• Klarivitina
• Nuran
• Periactin

This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Bladder and kidneys
  • Inability to urinate
• Eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry mouth
  • Enlarged pupils
  • Severely dry eyes
  • Ringing in the ears
• Heart and blood vessels
  • Convulsions
  • Low blood pressure
  • Rapid heartbeat
• Nervous system
  • Agitation
  • Confusion
  • Delirium
  • Depression
  • Drowsiness
  • Hallucinations
  • Increased sleepiness
  • Nervousness
  • Seizures
  • Tremor
  • Unsteadiness

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed
• If the medicine was prescribed for the patient

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. You may receive:

• Activated charcoal
• Laxative
• Medicine to reverse the effects of the poison (this is called an antidote)
• Tube thru the nose into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)

Outlook (Prognosis)

If the patient survives the first 24 hours, survival is likely. Few patients actually die from an antihistamine overdose.

Review Date: 1/23/2008
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.