Promethazine - generic Phenergan
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is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes.
This medication is also used to treat hives. Promethazine is a
phenothiazine in the same class of drugs as chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
and trifluoperazine (Stelazine); however, unlike the other drugs in this
class, promethazine is not used clinically as an anti-psychotic. It acts
as an anti-histamine, a sedative, and an anti-emetic (anti-nausea).
Promethazine is used principally as an anti-emetic, to prevent motion
sickness or as an anti-histamine in combination with other medications
in cough and cold preparations. Promethazine may cause less drowsiness than other
antihistamines. It was approved by the FDA in 1951.
SIDE EFFECTS: Promethazine often causes sedation and tiredness.
In children less than two it can depress respiration and lead to death
and, therefore, should not be used in children less than two years old.
Dizziness may also occur. Ironically, promethazine sometimes stimulates
patients, particularly children. Such stimulation may be manifest by
restlessness, inability to sleep, heart palpitations or even seizures. |
