Allergies Common Treatments What to Know About Promethazine First-generation antihistamine has its benefits and risks By James Myhre & Dennis Sifris, MD Dennis Sifris, MD, is an HIV specialist and Medical Director of LifeSense Disease Management. James Myhre is an American journalist and HIV educator. Learn about our editorial process James Myhre & Dennis Sifris, MD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Daniel More, MD on August 03, 2020 Daniel More, MD, is a board-certified allergist and clinical immunologist. He is an assistant clinical professor at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine and currently practices at Central Coast Allergy and Asthma in Salinas, California. Learn about our Medical Review Board Daniel More, MD Updated on December 25, 2020 Print Table of Contents View All Uses Before Taking Dosage Side Effects Warnings and Interactions Promethazine is a first-generation antihistamine used to treat allergies, nausea, and motion sickness. In a hospital setting, promethazine is often used to treat anaphylaxis and provide mild sedation before or after surgery. The drug can be taken by mouth as a tablet or syrup, injected into a muscle, or delivered as a rectal suppository. Common side effects include drowsiness, blurred vision, and dry mouth. Promethazine is available by prescription only, although it can be found as an ingredient in certain over-the-counter cough syrups and motion sickness remedies. Promethazine is sold as a generic and under a wide variety of brand names, including Phenadoz, Phenergan, and Promethegan. Promethazine should never be used in children under 2 years old. Doing so may cause abnormally slowed breathing and, in some cases, death. Paul Bradbury/Getty Images How Allergies Are Treated Uses Promethazine is classified as an H1 receptor antagonist, meaning that it blocks the action of histamine. Histamine is an inflammatory compound involved in many immune processes. When released in excess, histamine can cause swelling, itching, sneezing, and other symptoms of allergy. By binding to H1 receptors on tissues, promethazine prevents the attachment of histamine and, with it, the development of symptoms. Promethazine blocks other compounds, most notably the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. By doing so, promethazine can slow motility in the gastrointestinal tract. It can also penetrate the blood-brain barrier and act directly on the central nervous system, reducing nausea and delivering mild sedative effects. The indications of use for promethazine include: Seasonal allergy ("hay fever")Conjunctivitis ("pink eye")Mild sedation in adults and childrenPre-operative sedationPost-operative nausea and vomiting (associated with anesthesia or surgery)Post-operative pain (used in adjunct with an analgesic like Demerol)Motion sicknessCough (when co-formulated with codeine or dextromethorphan)Anaphylaxis (used in adjunct with epinephrine and other medications to counteract the potentially life-threatening hyperallergic reaction) Promethazine belongs to a family of drugs called phenothiazines that also includes Thorazine (chlorpromazine) and Stelazine (trifluoperazine). But, unlike those drugs, promethazine is not used as an antipsychotic. Off-Label Uses Promethazine is sometimes used off-label to treat morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum (a pregnancy complication characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and dehydration). According to the American College of Obstetrics, promethazine may be used for these purposes during pregnancy when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Promethazine is sometimes used to treat severe agitation and restlessness in people with psychiatric conditions, although there are no guidelines directing the appropriate use of the drug in such circumstances. Promethazine is also sometimes used off-label to treat migraines. However, this practice has largely fallen out of favor, given the introduction of newer drugs that are not only more effective but have fewer side effects. The Dangers of Promethazine and "Purple Drank" Before Taking The appropriate use of promethazine can vary based on its intended use. When used for the treatment of seasonal allergy or allergic conjunctivitis, second-generation antihistamines like Allegra (fexofenadine) and Claritin (loratadine) are preferred over promethazine, since they are available over-the-counter and cause less drowsiness. Promethazine should be considered if these second-generation antihistamines fail to provide relief. The same would apply to the use of promethazine in treating morning sickness or motion sickness. Because of its sedating effect, promethazine should only be used if other conservative therapies are unable to relieve nausea symptoms. The use of promethazine in a hospital setting is directed by a physician. Should I Take Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra? Precautions and Contraindications There are situations in which promethazine is contraindicated for use. This would include the avoidance of the drug in people with a known sensitivity to promethazine or other phenothiazines. In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued two separate black box warnings advising consumers and health professionals about potentially life-threatening risks of promethazine use. Black Box Warnings Promethazine in any form (oral, injection, suppository) should never be used in children under 2 due to the risk of slowed breathing (respiratory depression). Fatalities have been reported.Promethazine should never be injected subcutaneously (into the skin), as this can cause tissue death and gangrene. Such injections have led to limb amputations and skin grafts. Even intravenous injections (into a vein) can irritate and/or damage vascular tissues. Although intravenous injections are not contraindicated, the FDA advises that intramuscular injections (into deep muscle) remain the preferred route. Similarly, the FDA issued a black box warning advising against the use of cough syrups containing promethazine and codeine in younger children. This co-formulated syrup is also associated with an increased risk of respiratory depression and is contraindicated for use in children under 6. Using Promethazine Safely in Children Dosage Promethazine is available in several formulations. Oral tablets and syrups work relatively fast and deliver symptom relief within 20 minutes. Rectal suppositories are typically prescribed when oral formulations cannot be used. Promethazine injections usually work within 5 minutes and last four times longer than either tablets, syrups, or suppositories. Promethazine is offered in the following formulations: Tablet: 12.5 milligrams (mg), 25 mg, and 50 mgSyrup: 6.25 milligrams per 5 milliliters (6.25 mg/5 mL)Suppository: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mgInjectable solution: 25 mg per deciliter (mg/dL), 50 mg/dL The dosing recommendations vary by the age of the user and the condition being treated. Dosing Guidelines Adults Children 2 and older Allergy Oral/rectal: 25 mg at bedtime or two 12.5 mg doses taken once at mealtime and once at bedtimeInjection: 25 mg, repeated in two hours if needed Oral/rectal: same as adultsInjection: same as adults General sedation Oral/rectal 25 to 50 mg taken before bedtime Oral/rectal: 12.5 to 25 mg taken before bedtime Nausea and vomiting Oral/rectal: 12.5 to 25 mg taken every 4 to 6 hoursInjection: 12.5 mg to 25 mg taken every 4 to 6 hours Oral/rectal: 0.25 to 1.0 mg per kilogram (mg/kg) taken every 4 to 6 hours Motion sickness Oral/rectal: 25 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before departure and every 8 to 12 hours thereafter if needed Oral/rectal: 12.5 to 25 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before departure and every 8 to 12 hours thereafter if needed Pre-operative sedation Oral/rectal: 50 mg taken the night before the procedureInjection: 25 to 50 mg delivered before the procedure Oral/rectal: 1 mg/kg taken the night before the procedure Post-operative sedation Oral/rectal: 25 to 50 mgInjection: 25 to 50 mg Oral/rectal: 12.5 to 25 mg Labor Injection: 25 to 50 mg during early labor, increasing to 25 to 75 mg once labor is established Not applicable Modifications When used to treat seasonal allergies, promethazine should be reduced to the lowest possible dose once immediate symptoms have been relieved. Prolonged or frequent use can cause skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) and increase the risk of drug allergy even more than a large single dose. How to Take and Store It is important to take promethazine as prescribed to achieve the intended effect. If you are unsure of how to take promethazine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Among the general guidelines for use: Promethazine tablets are typically round and white; some are scored and others are not. The pills can be taken with or without foodPromethazine syrup is made with artificial berry flavoring. Each dose should be carefully measured with a 5-mL spoon. Avoid using a tablespoon or kitchen spoon, since this could lead to overdosing.Promethazine suppositories are torpedo-shaped and made with a combination of white wax and cocoa butter that melts at body temperature. Gently insert the suppository into the anus, narrow end first, pushing it up 1 inch in adults and a 0.5 to 1 inch in children.Promethazine injection solution is packaged in single-use, 1-mL vials. The injection is typically delivered into a deep muscle (such as the buttocks) by a health professional. If used intravenously, it is typically used with other intravenous drugs or fluids. Promethazine tablets, syrup, and injection solution should be stored at room temperature between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). Keep all forms of this medication away from direct sunlight in their original light-resistant containers. Unlike tablets or syrup, promethazine suppositories need to be refrigerated at temperatures of between 36 F and 46 F (2 C and 8 C). Never use promethazine past its expiration date. Side Effects As with any drug, promethazine may cause side effects, particularly in the early stages of treatment. Milder side effects tend to resolve on their own as the body adapts to the medication. Serious ones may require the termination of treatment. Common The side effects of promethazine are extensive and may include: DrowsinessDisorientationBlurred or double visionDizzinessFatigueNausea or vomitingNasal stuffinessXerostomia (dry mouth)Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight)Nervousness and excitabilityEuphoriaInsomniaTremorsHeart palpitations Severe Promethazine can sometimes cause side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include: Bradypnea (slow breathing)Bradycardia (slowed heartbeat)Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)Angioedema (swelling of the tissues beneath the skin)Cyanosis (blueish skin, lips, toes, or fingers)Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)Hives or rashHallucinationsDeliriumSeizuresMuscle rigidityTardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements, such as the sudden upward turning of the eyes, twisting of the head to one side, or jutting of the tongue) Symptoms like these may be signs of a drug reaction, liver toxicity, respiratory depression, or a condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome. None of these signs should ever be ignored. Even non-fatal symptoms like tardive dyskinesia may become permanent if treatment is continued. When to Call 911 Call 911 if there are signs of respiratory depression (slowed breathing, shortness of breath, and blueish skin), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever and muscle rigidity), or anaphylaxis (hives, wheezing, rapid heart rate, or swollen face or tongue). If not treated immediately, these conditions can be fatal. Warnings and Interactions There are a number of circumstances in which promethazine should be avoided or used with caution. Although not specifically contraindicated for use, promethazine may pose risks in certain people. The following are among the concerns to watch for. Driver impairment: Promethazine should not be used if you intend to drive or use heavy machinery. Its sedative effect may be amplified if the drug is taken with alcohol or any other nervous system depressant.Chemotherapy: Promethazine should be used with caution in people on chemotherapy or any medication that causes bone marrow suppression. Doing so can lead to a potentially severe drop in white blood cell count.Liver disease: Promethazine should be used with caution in people with liver impairment. Because promethazine is metabolized by the liver, any impairment can lead to liver toxicity.Pregnancy: Promethazine is a pregnancy category C drug, meaning that animal studies have shown a potential risk for birth defects but well-controlled studies in humans are not yet available. As such, the benefits and risks of treatment should be weighed before promethazine is used during pregnancy. Promethazine may interfere with the accuracy of pregnancy tests by increasing or decreasing levels of human chorionic gonadotropin. Doing so can lead to false-negative or false-positive results. Safety of Antihistamines During Pregnancy Interactions Promethazine can interact with certain drugs, often by amplifying their action along with their adverse effects. These include anticholinergic drugs that block the action of acetylcholine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are used to treat mood and anxiety disorders. Advise your doctor if you have been prescribed promethazine and take any of the following drugs: Atropen (atropine)Atrovent (ipratropium)Azilect (rasagiline)Cogentin (benztropine mesylate)Cyclogyl (cyclopentolate)Detrol (tolterodine)Ditropan XL (oxybutynin)Emsam (selegiline)Enablex (darifenacin)Hyoscine (scopolamine)Levsinex (hyoscyamine)Marplan (isocarboxazid)Nardil (phenelzine)Parnate (tranylcypromine)Spiriva (tiotropium)Toviaz (fesoterodine)Urispas (flavoxate)VESIcare (solifenacin) In some cases, a dose adjustment or drug substitution may be needed. To avoid interactions, always advise your doctor about any drugs you are taking, whether they are prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional, herbal, or recreational. Never stop taking any chronic medication, especially MAOIs, without first speaking with your doctor. Doing so may cause withdrawal symptoms and other adverse events. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Compound summary: Promethazine. Updated February 15, 2020. Monczor F, Fernandez N. Current knowledge and perspectives on histamine H1 and H2 receptor pharmacology: Functional selectivity, receptor crosstalk, and repositioning of classic histaminergic ligands. 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Revised January 2017. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Promethazine HCL plain oral solution. Revised May 2008. Cantisani C, Ricci S, Grieco T, et al. Topical promethazine side effects: our experience and review of the literature. Biomed Res Int. 2013;2013:151509. doi:10.1155/2013/151509 Kar S, Krishnan A, Preetha K, Mohankar A. A review of antihistamines used during pregnancy. J Pharmacol Pharmacother. 2012;3(2):105-8. doi:10.4103/0976-500X.95503 Bustos M, Venkataramanan R, Caritis S. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy - What's new?. Auton Neurosci. 2017;202:62-72. doi:10.1016/j.autneu.2016.05.002 Additional Reading American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. ACOG practice bulletin no. 189: Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(1):e15-e30. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000002456