Cyproheptadine Dosing for Appetite Stimulation in a 2.5-Year-Old Child Weighing 15 kg
For a 2.5-year-old child weighing 15 kg, the recommended dose of cyproheptadine for appetite stimulation is 2 mg (half a tablet) two to three times daily, not exceeding 12 mg per day. 1
Dosing Guidelines
- The FDA-approved dosage for children aged 2-6 years is calculated based on body weight at approximately 0.25 mg/kg/day or 8 mg per square meter of body surface area 1
- For a 15 kg child, this equates to approximately 3.75 mg daily (0.25 mg/kg × 15 kg) 1
- The standard administration is 2 mg (half of a 4 mg tablet) given two to three times daily, adjusted according to the child's response 1
- The maximum daily dose should not exceed 12 mg for children in this age group 1
Administration Considerations
- Cyproheptadine is available as 4 mg tablets that can be split in half for the appropriate pediatric dose 1
- The medication should be given consistently with respect to meals 2
- Effects on appetite stimulation typically begin within days of starting treatment 2
- Long-term studies have shown that cyproheptadine maintains its appetite-stimulating effect over time with an acceptable side effect profile 2
Monitoring and Expected Outcomes
- Weight should be monitored regularly to assess the effectiveness of treatment 2
- Studies have shown significant weight gain in children receiving cyproheptadine compared to placebo 2, 3
- In children with growth hormone deficiency, cyproheptadine (0.25-0.4 mg/kg/day) has been shown to enhance both weight gain and linear growth 3
Potential Side Effects
- Common side effects include mild sedation, especially during initial treatment 2
- Other possible side effects include dry mouth and increased appetite (the desired effect) 2
- Side effects are generally mild and tend to diminish with continued use 2
Important Precautions
- Dosage should be adjusted based on the child's clinical response and any side effects 1
- If excessive sedation occurs, consider administering the larger portion of the daily dose at bedtime 2
- Treatment should be periodically reassessed to determine if continued therapy is necessary 2
Clinical Pearls
- Cyproheptadine has been successfully used as an appetite stimulant in various pediatric conditions including cystic fibrosis, with good long-term safety profile 2
- The medication works as an antihistamine with antiserotonergic properties, which contributes to its appetite-stimulating effects 4
- For optimal results, consistent administration and regular follow-up are recommended 2