Drug interactions
Cyproheptadine + Valerian
Severity: Moderate
Cyproheptadine and Valerian: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Valerian has mild sedative properties and may add to the drowsiness produced by cyproheptadine. The combination could impair alertness and coordination, especially at bedtime dosing or in older adults.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cyproheptadine and Valerian can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depression, with valerian acting on GABAergic pathways and cyproheptadine blocking central H1 receptors.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid driving or operating machinery until the combined effect is known, and to avoid adding other sedatives. Consider stopping valerian if daytime sedation occurs.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Cyproheptadine
- Cyproheptadine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Cyproheptadine Major
- Belladonna and opium + Cyproheptadine Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Cyproheptadine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cyproheptadine with Valerian?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Cyproheptadine and Valerian can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Valerian has mild sedative properties and may add to the drowsiness produced by cyproheptadine. The combination could impair alertness and coordination, especially at bedtime dosing or in older adults.
How serious is the interaction between Cyproheptadine and Valerian?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid driving or operating machinery until the combined effect is known, and to avoid adding other sedatives. Consider stopping valerian if daytime sedation occurs.
What other medicines interact with Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyproheptadine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Cyproheptadine page.
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