Phenergan

Phenergan

Class
Antihistamine/Antiemetic


Description
Promethazine is a phenothiazine derivitive with potent antihistamine properties and anticholinergic properties. It is used used frequetly as an antiemetic, often in combination with narcotic analgesics.


Onset & Duration
Onset: 5 min IV, 20 min. IM
Duration: 4-6 hours


Indications
1. Nausea and vomiting
2. To potentiate effects of analgesics
3. Sedation


Contraindications
1. Prior hypersensitivity
2. Comatose states


Adverse Reactions
1. Drowsiness
2. Sedation
3. Blurred vision
4. Tachycardia
5. Bradycardia
6. Dizziness


Drug Interactions
1. Can cause extrapyramidal symptoms in patients on MAOI drugs. Diphenhydramine should be administered to reverse these symptoms
2. The CNS effects of depressants and alcohol are potentiated by promethazine


Special considerations
1. Pregnancy safety: Category C
2. Never administer subcutaneously