Promethazine

Dosage Forms Available

• Promethazine can be taken orally(tablets or syrup), intravenously and intramuscularly (injection).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Promethazine is recommended for use in adults and children aged over 2 years.

Contraindications

• Promethazine is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Promethazine or other phenothiazines.
• It is also contraindicated in patients who are comatose or have severe central nervous system depression.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Promethazine may interact with sedatives (such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates), opioids (like morphine and codeine), anticholinergics (for example, atropine and benztropine), and certain antipsychotics (like haloperidol, chlorpromazine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• In case of an overdose of Promethazine, one might experience symptoms such as severe drowsiness, seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, and respiratory failure. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve after discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor. Here are some tips to manage common side effects:

• For dry mouth, sip on water or suck on ice chips.
• If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving.
• If you get constipated, increase your fibre intake and drink plenty of fluids.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medicine may cause drowsiness or impair your thinking or reactions. Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Promethazine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Promethazine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. This medicine can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medicine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with liver disease or a history of seizures need to be cautious while using Promethazine.
• People with cardiovascular disease or glaucoma should also use this medicine with caution as it may worsen these conditions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• If you are taking Promethazine for allergies, avoid known allergens in your diet and environment as much as possible.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule if you are using it for insomnia.
• If you are using it for motion sickness, try to sit in the front seat of a car or in the middle of a boat or plane where there is less motion. Avoid reading during travel if that causes motion sickness.