Images for illustrative purposes only
Looking for Next Day delivery?
Order before 15:30 on Monday to Friday for next day delivery
Promethazine
Promethazine is a medicine that has a variety of uses. It can be used as an antihistamine (to control runny nose, sneezing, watering eyes etc.) but also for motion sickness. The antihistamine mode of action is straightforward as it blocks the effects of histamine in the body, which in turn controls the allergic response of the patient. As far as motion sickness and calming effect are concerned, the mode of action is not fully understood.
- Treatment for allergies and motion-sickness
- Drowsy type medication
- NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Promethazine is an antihistamine which helps to reduce the symptoms of hay fever by blocking receptors in the body, which usually cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
There is always a risk of side effects with all medications. Some of these can be quite mild and can subside over time. Others are more serious and should be reported to your GP right away if you experience any side effects. Please contact a member of our team if you are concerned about any potential side effects that may occur when taking promethazine.
Drowsiness (sedation) is very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people). Other side effects (frequency not known) include:
- Blurred vision
- Restlessness
- Tiredness
- Dizziness or headache
- Sensitivity of the skin to sunlight (photosensitivity)
There are some serious side effects that may occur when taking promethazine. You should stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Abnormal bruising or bleeding
- Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes as this can be a sign of liver problems
- Muscle or joint stiffness
- Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat (including QT prolongation)
Do not take promethazine if:
- It is for a child under 6 years old
- You are taking a medicine for depression called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or have stopped taking one in the last 14 days
- The person is unconscious (in a coma) or has severe dizziness, drowsiness or headache
Do not take promethazine for longer than 7 days. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after 7 days, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I drink alcohol with this medication?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking promethazine- this can increase the risks of side effects.
How should I use this medication?
Only take promethazine when you need it, such as relief for hay fever. Always use as directed.
How do I take this medication?
Always take promethazine with a drink of water. Swallow them whole. Do not chew them.
What if I forget my medicine?
Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.
Never take two doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.
How long does it take to work?
The effects of promethazine can last for up to 12 hours, so you may still feel drowsy the next day. If you feel drowsy, dizzy or have blurred vision, do not drive or operate machinery.
How long can I take it for?
Do not take promethazine for longer than 7 days without seeking medical advice.
Avoid strong sunlight or ultraviolet light during or shortly after treatment, as promethazine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Promethazine is not recommended during pregnancy, unless your doctor decides the benefits outweigh the risks, and is not recommended while breastfeeding.
Leaflets
Before taking any medicines, regardless of whether they are over the counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.
