Piccan Syrup

Piccan Syrup is formulated to ease the discomfort and low-grade fever that can accompany teething in infants. It combines two active ingredients: paracetamol, a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer, and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine with a calming, sedative effect. In this article, we look at how each ingredient works, how Piccan syrup is meant to be used, and what to watch for so you can use it safely. 

Mechanism of Action of Piccan

Piccan Syrup combines two active ingredients, diphenhydramine and paracetamol, to produce its therapeutic effects. Looking at each ingredient’s mechanism of action separately gives a clearer picture of what Piccan does in the body. 

• Diphenhydramine is a first-generation H1 antihistamine. It blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing itching, sneezing, and other allergic effects. It also crosses the blood-brain barrier, causing drowsiness, and blocks muscarinic receptors, causing dry mouth, urinary retention, and confusion in sensitive groups.

• Paracetamol (acetaminophen) acts mainly in the central nervous system. It inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes there, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, which raises the pain threshold (analgesia) and resets the hypothalamic temperature set point (antipyresis). Its metabolite AM404 also acts on the endocannabinoid and TRPV1 systems, adding to its pain relief. Unlike NSAIDs, it has weak peripheral COX inhibition, so it has little anti-inflammatory effect and is gentler on the stomach. 

Indications: Use of Piccan Syrup

Piccan Syrup is used to help relieve a baby’s discomfort during teething. It helps ease teething-related pain and can also reduce fever when present. By providing relief from these symptoms, Piccan Syrup may help make the teething period more comfortable for the baby. However, it is important to use the syrup according to the recommended dosage and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if the baby’s symptoms persist or worsen.

Piccan Syrup Dosage

Teething can be stressful for both babies and parents, but safe dosing is essential. Follow the recommended dose and leave at least four hours between doses. If your baby has a high fever, symptoms persist beyond two to three days, or you’re concerned, speak to your pharmacist or paediatrician.

Child’s age	Recommended dose	Maximum doses in 24 hours
3–6 months (over 5 kg)	2.5 mL	3 doses
6–12 months	2.5 mL	3 doses
1–2 years	2.5 mL	3–4 doses
3–7 years	5 mL	3–4 doses
8–12 years	10 mL	3–4 doses

Pharmacist Osuoha Rosemary’s safety advice: Use an oral syringe or the measuring device supplied with the medicine to ensure accurate dosing. Do not exceed the recommended dose or combine Piccan Syrup with other medicines containing paracetamol or diphenhydramine without professional advice.

Contraindications of Piccan Syrup

Piccan Syrup contains paracetamol and diphenhydramine hydrochloride and should not be used in the following situations:

• Allergy to its ingredients: Children with a known hypersensitivity to paracetamol, diphenhydramine, or any of the product’s other ingredients should not use it.
• Use of Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Do not give Piccan to children taking these medicines or who have stopped taking them within the previous 14 days.
• Epilepsy: Large doses of antihistamines may trigger seizures in susceptible children.
• Hereditary fructose intolerance: The product should not be used in patients with this rare inherited condition.
• Porphyria: Piccan is contraindicated in patients with porphyria.

Side Effects of Piccan Syrup

The paracetamol component of Piccan is generally well tolerated when given at the recommended dose, and most of the side effects of Piccan are attributable to its diphenhydramine component. 

Common side effects

• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Excitability, restlessness, or irritability, particularly in young children

Serious side effects

Although less common, seek urgent medical attention if a child develops:

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing or a severe allergic reaction
• Seizures
• Severe confusion or unusual behaviour
• Difficulty passing urine

Piccan Syrup Price in Nigeria

The price of Piccan Syrup typically ranges from ₦10,000 to ₦14,000 in Nigeria, depending on the pharmacy, location, and availability.

To ensure the quality and safety of the medicine, purchase Piccan Syrup only from a reputable, licensed pharmacy and avoid buying from unverified sellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Piccan Syrup, including its uses, dosage, safety, and what parents should know before giving it to their children. 

Is Piccan good for teething? 

Yes, Piccan provides calming relief from the symptoms associated with children’s teething troubles, pain & fever.

What month can I start Piccan for my Baby? 

Piccan Syrup is indicated for babies from 3 months of age. However, consult a pharmacist or paediatrician before use, especially in babies under 6 months, due to its diphenhydramine content.

Which is better, Babyrex or Piccan? 

Neither medicine is universally better. The choice depends on the child’s age and symptoms, while Babyrex contains chlorpheniramine, which is commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose. Piccan contains diphenhydramine, which also relieves allergy symptoms but may cause more pronounced sedation and can sometimes cause paradoxical excitement or restlessness in children. 

When to give my baby Piccan? 

Piccan Syrup may be used for short-term relief of teething-related pain and discomfort, aches, and fever when appropriate for the child’s age. It is indicated for babies from 3 months of age, but routine use is not recommended.