phenylephrine and promethazine Health Article

Generic name(s):

phenylephrine and promethazine

Brand name(s):

phenylephrine-promethazine, Phenergan VC, Promethazine VC Plain

What is the most important information I should know about phenylephrine and promethazine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Phenylephrine and promethazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking phenylephrine and promethazine.

What is phenylephrine and promethazine?

Phenylephrine is a decongestant. It works by constricting (shrinking) blood vessels (veins and arteries) in the sinuses and nose to decrease congestion.

Promethazine is an antihistamine. It blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body.

Phenylephrine and promethazine is used to treat symptoms such as itching, runny nose; sneezing; and congestion due to allergies or the common cold.

Phenylephrine and promethazine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking phenylephrine and promethazine?

Do not take phenylephrine and promethazine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or selegiline (Eldepryl) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

Before taking phenylephrine and promethazine, tell your doctor if you have

• epilepsy or a seizure disorder;

• been diagnosed with sleep apnea (periods of not breathing during sleep);

• thyroid problems;

• diabetes;

• glaucoma;

• an ulcer or an obstruction in the stomach;

• bladder problems or difficulty urinating;

• an enlarged prostate;

• high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, or heart disease;

• kidney problems; or
• liver problems.

You may not be able to take phenylephrine and promethazine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Phenylephrine and promethazine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether phenylephrine and promethazine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take phenylephrine and promethazine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether phenylephrine and promethazine passes into breast milk. Do not take phenylephrine and promethazine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from phenylephrine and promethazine. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take phenylephrine and promethazine?

Take phenylephrine and promethazine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the directions on your prescription bottle, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain the instructions to you.

Phenylephrine and promethazine can be taken with or without food.

To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of phenylephrine and promethazine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Store phenylephrine and promethazine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a phenylephrine and promethazine overdose include severe drowsiness, dizziness, headache, seizures, dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness.