Promethazine

Information About Promethazine

Uses of Promethazine

Promethazine is commonly used in the treatment of motion sickness, vertigo, hay fever, urticaria, pruritis, angioedema, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and insomnia.

How Promethazine Works

Promethazine inhibits postsynaptic mesolimbic dopaminergic receptors which block the alpha-adrenergic effect and suppresses the release of hypothalamic and hypophyseal hormones. Antiemetic activity will be produced through muscarinic blocking and competes with histamine to bind with H1-receptor.

Side Effects of Promethazine

Bradycardia, Tachycardia, Hypotension, Jaundice, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Promethazine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to drink alcohol with Promethazine as it enhances the CNS effects of the Alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Promethazine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown side effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Not Advisable

Promethazine is shown to be excreted in breast milk. It is not advisable for women to breastfeed while consuming Promethazine because of its potential adverse drug effects on infants.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Promethazine may cause side effects such as marked drowsiness which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Promethazine should be used with caution in patients with kidney impairment. Dose adjustment of Promethazine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Use With Care

Promethazine should be used with caution in patients with liver disorder. Dose adjustment of Promethazine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.