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Promethazine-Phenylephrine

Pronounced

"pro-METH-uh-zeen/fen-ill-EFF-rin"

Uses

See also Warning section.

This combination medication is used to temporarily relieve symptoms caused by the common cold or allergies. Promethazine is an antihistamine that relieves watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing. Phenylephrine is a decongestant that helps relieve stuffy nose and ear congestion symptoms.

Cough-and-cold products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects if not used properly. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 to 6 hours as needed. This medication may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 1 week, if it gets worse, or if it occurs with a headache that doesn't go away, fever, or rash. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor.

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Information expires December 2025.