Basic Periactin Information

• INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Cyproheptadine
• Brand names available in Canada: Periactin, Ciplactin
• ATC Code: R06AX02
• Forms & dosages: Tablets (4 mg), Syrup (2 mg/5 ml)
• Manufacturers in Canada: Various including Viatris and Teva
• Registration status in Canada: Registered, varies by indication
• OTC / Rx classification: Available OTC and by prescription

Availability & Price Landscape

Periactin is widely available across Canada, particularly in major pharmacy chains like Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and London Drugs. - Shoppers Drug Mart typically keeps consistent stock of Periactin tablets and syrup, making it accessible in most urban centres. - Rexall pharmacies may vary in stock levels, especially in rural areas, but generally provide access to this medication. - London Drugs also carries this antihistamine, ensuring that residents in Western Canada have good access. Online purchasing options for Periactin are increasingly popular. Many Canadians opt to buy medications from reputable online pharmacies. However, it's essential to check provincial regulations, as some regions may have specific rules about obtaining medications online. Recent trends indicate that while some provinces allow online purchases without prescriptions, others may require them for certain medications. Patients should always verify the legitimacy of online pharmacy sources. When considering price ranges, there are some variations across provinces. Typically, the cost of Periactin 4 mg tablets can range from approximately CAD 10 to CAD 25 for a package of 30 tablets. Syrup formulations may vary slightly in price depending on the pharmacy and region, where costs might reach up to CAD 30 for a 120 mL bottle.

Canadian Patient Insights & Satisfaction Levels

Patient experiences with Periactin shared on Canadian forums and review platforms such as Reddit Canada and HealthBoards provide valuable insights. Many users report positive outcomes, particularly appreciating its efficacy in stimulating appetite. - Common themes in feedback highlight satisfaction with Periactin's ability to support weight gain, especially among those struggling with appetite loss due to medical conditions. Despite the benefits, some users express concerns regarding side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth. Balancing these effects against the medication's appetite-stimulating properties appears to be a common discussion point among patients. While many users have shared successful experiences with Periactin, some challenges have also been noted. Drowsiness is frequently mentioned, which some find manageable while others perceive it as a downside requiring careful planning around activities.

Product Overview & Brand Variants

In Canada, the active ingredient in Periactin is cyproheptadine, known for its antihistamine properties. Periactin is recognized as the primary brand name, but it is marketed under several variations such as Ciplactin, especially in different regions. Each brand contains cyproheptadine but may differ slightly in packaging and availability. The local availability of these brand variants may depend on the pharmacy's stock and regional preferences. Health Canada classifies Periactin as both an OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription medication, providing access depending on the need and community health guidelines. This classification ensures that individuals can obtain Periactin with relative ease, either directly from pharmacies or prescribed by healthcare professionals.

Indications in Local Canadian Medical Practice

Health Canada has approved Periactin for several indications, primarily for allergic reactions and as an antihistamine. It is commonly used in practice for: - Treating allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. - Support in appetite stimulation for those experiencing weight loss. Medical practitioners frequently utilize Periactin off-label for appetite stimulation, particularly in pediatric patients with failure to thrive or in individuals undergoing medical treatment leading to appetite suppression. This off-label usage highlights the importance of ongoing clinical assessment in ensuring the benefit-risk balance favours the patient’s health needs. While there is flexibility regarding its use, it's essential to consult healthcare professionals to establish the appropriateness of using Periactin for individual cases. Canadian healthcare professionals often monitor its effects closely to adapt treatment as necessary.

How It Works in the Body

Cyproheptadine, the active component in Periactin, operates primarily by blocking histamine receptors in the body. - This mechanism reduces allergy symptoms by preventing histamine's effects, alleviating discomfort associated with allergic reactions. Users commonly report an increase in appetite—one of the distinctive benefits of this medication. Furthermore, cyproheptadine exhibits anticholinergic properties, which can lead to sedative effects, contributing to the medication’s effectiveness but also necessitating caution regarding its side effects. For those interested in understanding the drug’s pharmacodynamics, it’s documented that cyproheptadine is metabolised in the liver and excreted via urine. This pharmacokinetic profile suggests that patients should use Periactin judiciously, particularly if they have existing hepatic conditions or are on other medications with similar metabolic pathways. Periactin's broader implications in enhancing appetite and managing allergic responses position it as a versatile tool in Canadian medical practice.

Canadian Patient Insights & Satisfaction Levels

Understanding patient experiences with medications like Periactin can reveal a lot about its efficacy and overall satisfaction levels. It's not just about how the drug works, but how it fits into the lives of those using it. Patients often take to platforms like Reddit Canada, HealthBoards, and AskDocs to share their personal journeys, advice, and opinions regarding periactin and its impact on their health.

Forum and review platforms (Reddit Canada, HealthBoards, AskDocs)

On platforms such as Reddit Canada and HealthBoards, users frequently discuss their experiences with periactin. Common themes emerge regarding the positive effects on appetite stimulation and allergy management. Many patients express satisfaction with how the medication addresses their needs, particularly in the context of appetite enhancement. Users appreciate the fast-acting nature of the drug, often noting relief from allergy symptoms within a short period. However, interactions reveal concerns too, like issues with drowsiness and potential side effects that could impact daily functioning.

Reported benefits and challenges from Canadian patients

Many Canadian patients report significant benefits from using periactin. A notable highlight includes appetite stimulation, which is crucial for those facing weight management issues or recovery scenarios. Some users mention an increase in energy levels and improved overall well-being as they gain weight in a healthy manner. However, challenges are also prevalent in patient feedback. Side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth frequently arise, causing some users to reconsider their dosage or change their medication regimen entirely. Overall, it's a mixed bag of effective relief paired with notable challenges, showcasing the complexity of user experiences with periactin.

Product Overview & Brand Variants

INN and brand names used in Canada

The International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for this medication is Cyproheptadine. In Canada, it's primarily marketed under the brand name Periactin. However, there are a variety of other names used internationally, which can sometimes create confusion. For instance, Ciplactin is a popular alternative name primarily found in India. Other variants include Cyproheptadina in Latin America and Spain, and Apeplus, among many others globally. Each brand may come packaged differently, depending on regional preferences, regulatory requirements, and marketing strategies. For example, Periactin is sold in 4 mg tablets, while other names may distribute syrups or different strengths suited to local markets.

Legal classification under Health Canada

In Canada, Periactin is classified as a prescription medication (Rx). This classification indicates that it is not available over-the-counter (OTC) and requires a doctor's prescription for access. Consequently, this factor may limit the accessibility for individuals seeking treatment for allergic reactions or appetite stimulation. With Periactin only obtainable through a healthcare provider, patients must undergo proper evaluation and monitoring. This helps ensure its use is appropriate and that potential side effects can be effectively managed. The need for a prescription is particularly crucial in ensuring safe use, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, where side effects can be more pronounced.

City	Region	Delivery Time
Toronto	Ontario	5–7 days
Vancouver	British Columbia	5–7 days
Montreal	Quebec	5–7 days
Calgary	Alberta	5–7 days
Ottawa	Ontario	5–7 days
Edmonton	Alberta	5–7 days
Quebec City	Quebec	5–9 days
Winnipeg	Manitoba	5–9 days
Halifax	Nova Scotia	5–9 days
Victoria	British Columbia	5–9 days
Regina	Saskatchewan	5–9 days
Saskatoon	Saskatchewan	5–9 days