Phenergan
® (
promethazine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved for a variety of widely different uses. It is used most commonly as a nausea medication, although it is frequently used for other purposes as well.
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.
Who Makes This Medication?
Brand-name
Phenergan tablets, syrup, and suppositories were made by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Inc. but are no longer available. Brand-name
Phenergan injection is made by Baxter Healthcare Corporation. Generic versions are made by various manufacturers.
Phenergan has several different effects in the body and the brain. Many of the effects are most likely due to its antihistamine activity. This medicine works by blocking histamine receptors. It also belongs to a group of medications known as phenothiazines.
Although phenothiazines are usually used as
antipsychotic medications, Phenergan has little dopamine-blocking activity. This makes it a weak antipsychotic medication, and this drug is not used as an antipsychotic.
Phenergan also blocks acetylcholine receptors, which is probably why it helps to alleviate nausea and motion sickness.
When and How to Take Phenergan
Some general considerations for those taking Phenergan include the following:
- Phenergan comes in tablet, rectal suppository, syrup, and injectable form. It is usually taken one to three times daily.
- You can take this medicine with or without food.
- Great care should be taken if Phenergan is injected intravenously, as improper administration can cause severe tissue damage, including gangrene. In some cases, amputations have resulted.
Phenergan should not be given by "IV push" (when the medication is injected with a syringe rapidly into the IV line rather than dripped slowly into the IV line). Injection directly into a muscle is the preferred way to give this drug in most situations.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
The dose of Phenergan your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Your age and weight (for children)
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your dosage unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Phenergan
Just like any medicine, Phenergan may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Negative reactions to Phenergan can include, but are not limited to:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Dry mouth.
(Click Phenergan Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Phenergan if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who take too much Phenergan may experience effects such as:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased breathing
- Unconsciousness
- Overactive reflexes and muscle tone
- Sudden death.
If you happen to overdose on this medicine, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Phenergan?
If you forget to take a dose of Phenergan, take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the one you missed and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
How Should This Medicine Be Stored?
You should store
Phenergan tablets and syrup at room temperature, away from light and moisture. The suppositories should be kept in the refrigerator. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
The medication is available in the following strengths and forms:
- Promethazine 12.5 mg tablets and rectal suppositories
- Promethazine 25 mg tablets and rectal suppositories
- Promethazine 50 mg tablets and rectal suppositories
- Promethazine 6.25 mg per 5 mL syrup
- Phenergan 25 mg per mL injection vials and ampuls (1 mL)
- Phenergan 50 mg per mL injection vials and ampuls (1 mL).
This medication is available in generic form. In fact, brand-name Phenergan tablets, syrup, and suppositories are no longer available.
