IMPORTANT WARNING:     

Why is this medication prescribed?     

Promethazine is used to relieve the symptoms of allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis (runny nose and watery eyes caused by allergy to pollen, mold or dust), allergic conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes caused by allergies), allergic skin reactions, and allergic reactions to blood or plasma products. Promethazine is used with other medications to treat anaphylaxis (sudden, severe allergic reactions). Promethazine is also used to relax and sedate patients before and after surgery, during labor, and at other times. Promethazine is also used to prevent and control upset stomach and vomiting that may occur after surgery, and to help relieve pain after surgery. Promethazine is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness. Promethazine is in a class of medications called phenothiazines. It works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance in the body.

How should this medicine be used?     

Promethazine comes as a tablet and syrup (liquid) to take by mouth and as a suppository to use rectally.When promethazine is used to treat allergies, it is usually taken one to four times daily, before meals and/or at bedtime. When promethazine is used to treat motion sickness, it is taken 30-60 minutes before travel and again after 8-12 hours if needed. On longer trips, promethazine is usually taken in the morning and before the evening meal on each day of travel. When promethazine is used to treat or prevent upset stomach and vomiting it is usually taken every 4-6 hours as needed. Promethazine may also be taken at bedtime the night before surgery to relieve anxiety and produce quiet sleep. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take promethazine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Promethazine suppositories are for rectal use only. Do not try to swallow the suppositories or insert in any other part of your body.

To insert a promethazine suppository, follow these steps:

• If the suppository feels soft, hold it under cold, running water for 1 minute. Remove the wrapper.
• Dip the tip of the suppository in water.
• Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (A left-handed person should lie on the right side and raise the left knee.)
• Using your finger, insert the suppository into the rectum, about 1/2 to 1 inch in children who are 2 years of age older and 1 inch in adults. Hold it in place for a few moments.
• Stand up after about 15 minutes. Wash your hands thoroughly and resume your normal activities.

Other uses for this medicine     

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the carton or container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store promethazine tablets and liquid at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Store promethazine suppositories in the refrigerator. Protect the medication from light. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• difficulty breathing
• slowed or stopped breathing
• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• fainting
• loss of consciousness
• fast heartbeat
• tight muscles that are difficult to move
• loss of coordination
• continuous twisting movements of the hands and feet
• dry mouth
• wide pupils (black circles in the middle of the eyes)
• flushing
• upset stomach
• constipation
• abnormal excitement or agitation
• nightmares

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Promethazine can interfere with the results of home pregnancy tests. Talk to your doctor if you think you might be pregnant while you are taking promethazine. Do not try to test for pregnancy at home.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking promethazine.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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