Cyproheptadine Hydrochloride and Influenza A Virus Vaccine (H5N1)

• Generic Name: cyproheptadine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names:

  Periactin

Treatment of cold urticaria.

Symptomatic relief of perennial (nonseasonal) and seasonal (e.g., hay fever) allergic rhinitis.

Management of nonallergic (vasomotor) rhinitis.

Management of allergic conjunctivitis caused by foods or inhaled allergens.

Management of mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema.

Treatment of dermatographism.

Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma.

Adjunct to epinephrine and other standard measures for management of anaphylactic reactions after acute manifestations have been controlled.

Has been effective in some patients for the treatment of Cushing’s syndrome secondary to pituitary disorders; however, in most patients, other therapy (e.g., surgery, radiation therapy) is preferred.

Has been effective for the management of inhibited male or female orgasm (anorgasmy) induced by tricyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, fluoxetine, or antipsychotic agents. However, consider the potential for interactions between these drugs and cyproheptadine. (See Interactions.)

Has been shown to stimulate appetite and weight gain in children and adults; however, few indications for clinical use. May be of some value in the treatment of anorexia nervosa; may be more effective in nonbulimic patients than in those who are bulimic.

Reportedly has been effective in some patients for the management of vascular headaches (e.g., migraine). Efficacy for prophylaxis of migraine not established in randomized controlled studies, but some experts consider the drug to be effective based on consensus and clinical experience.

• Generic Name: influenza virus vaccine, h5n1
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names:

  Influenza Virus Vaccine, H5N1, Inactivated

H5N1 influenza is sometimes called avian flu or "bird flu" because it is usually found in birds, including domestic poultry such as chickens and geese. You cannot become infected with H5N1 influenza from eating fully cooked poultry products.

Influenza A subtype H5N1 is caused by a virus, and this virus affects mainly birds in Asia and Africa. Human infection with H5N1 influenza is rare, but you can become infected by having direct contact with sick or dead birds that have been infected with H5N1 influenza virus. You may also come into contact with H5N1 influenza virus if you visit a live poultry market.

Although H5N1 influenza virus is not easily transmitted from person to person, you can become infected if you have prolonged close contact with another person who has become infected with avian flu.

Influenza Virus Vaccine, H5N1 is used to help prevent disease in people who are at risk of coming into contact with infected birds or other sources of the virus.

Influenza Virus Vaccine, H5N1 is for use in adults and children who are at least 6 months old.

Influenza Virus Vaccine, H5N1 works by exposing you to a small dose of the virus, which causes the body to develop immunity to the disease. This vaccine will not treat an active infection that has already developed in the body.

Like any vaccine, the H5N1 influenza virus vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.