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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

PROMETHAZINE - ORAL

(pro-METH-uh-zeen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Phen-Tuss, Phenergan

WARNING: Promethazine should not be used in children younger than 2 years since it might cause serious (possibly fatal) slow/shallow breathing. This problem has occurred even with normal doses in this age group. The lowest effective dosage should be used, and other drugs that affect breathing should be avoided. Seek immediate medical attention in the unlikely event that slow/shallow breathing occurs.

In children, drugs for nausea should only be used in cases of prolonged vomiting when the cause is known. Avoid use of promethazine in children with liver disease (including possible Reye's syndrome).

USES: Promethazine is used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting related to certain conditions (e.g., motion sickness, before/after surgery). It is also used to treat allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, and runny nose. It may be used for a short time to treat a runny nose due to the common cold. It may also be used to help you feel calmer before/after surgery or to help certain narcotic pain relievers (e.g., meperidine) work better.

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

Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.

These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the 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: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 4 times daily as needed or as directed by your doctor. For motion sickness, promethazine should be taken 30-60 minutes before beginning travel. If needed, the dose may be repeated 8 to 12 hours later as directed. For continued travel, your doctor may direct you to take promethazine twice a day, in the morning and before the evening meal. For allergies, this medication may be taken at bedtime to decrease daytime drowsiness. When used before surgery, promethazine may be taken the night before or just before the procedure and may be continued afterwards.

If you are using the liquid form, use a medication measuring device to carefully measure the prescribed dose. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to therapy. Take this medication exactly as directed to get the most benefit from it. Do not take more medication or take it more often than prescribed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.