Can You Take Too Much Phenergan?
Phenergan® (
promethazine hydrochloride) is a prescription drug used to treat numerous conditions. It is both an antihistamine and a phenothiazine. As with most medications, it may be possible to take too much Phenergan. The specific effects of an overdose will vary, depending on a number of factors, including the
Phenergan dosage and whether it was taken with any other medications or substances.
It should be noted that this article applies only to Phenergan products that contain only promethazine as the active ingredient. Some cough syrups (such as Phenergan with Codeine) contain other active ingredients as well.
Symptoms of an Overdose With Phenergan
The effects of a Phenergan overdose may include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased breathing
- Unconsciousness
- Overactive reflexes and muscle tone
- Seizures
- Hyperactivity (especially in children and elderly individuals)
- Nightmares
- Dry mouth
- Dilated pupils
- Flushing
- Sudden death.
Treating a Phenergan Overdose
The treatment for an overdose with Phenergan will vary. If the overdose was recent, the healthcare provider may administer activated charcoal to help absorb the medication in the digestive tract. Treatment also involves supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV), if necessary
- Careful monitoring of the vital signs
- Medications (such as diphenhydramine) to treat some of the symptoms of the overdose
- Other treatments based on any complications that occur.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you or someone else may have taken too much Phenergan.
