Promethazine
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
Note: Feel free to discuss this medication and your experiences in administering it in an emergency or hospital based setting on our message board
