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Promethazine

This form:

Pronounced

"pro-METH-uh-zeen"

Common brand names:

Phenergan

Uses

Promethazine is used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting related to certain conditions (such as before/after surgery, motion sickness). It is also used with other medication to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and reactions to blood products. It may also be used to treat milder allergic reactions when you cannot take promethazine by mouth. It may also be used to help you feel sleepy/relaxed before and after surgery, during other procedures, or during labor and delivery. It may also be used to help certain opioid pain relievers (such as meperidine) work better.

Promethazine is an antihistamine and works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Its other effects (such as anti-nausea, calming, pain relief) may work by affecting other natural substances (such as acetylcholine) and by acting directly on certain parts of the brain.

This drug is not approved for use in children younger than 2 years due to an increased risk of side effects (such as slow/shallow breathing). See also Warning section.

How to Use This Medication

See also Warning section.

This medication is given by injection into a muscle or a vein by a health care professional. It should not be injected under the skin or into an artery. For nausea and vomiting, this medication is given as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 hours as needed.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Children's dosage may also be based on weight.

Tell your doctor if you do not get better or if you get worse.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

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Information expires December 2025.