DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Dextromethorphan; Promethazine

March 21, 2017

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Promethazine Hydrochloride Oral syrup

What is this medicine?

DEXTROMETHORPHAN; PROMETHAZINE (dex troe meth OR fan; proe METH a zeen) is a cough suppressant and an antihistamine. It is used to treat coughing due to colds or allergies. This medicine will not treat an infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

  • asthma or other lung disease

  • diabetes

  • eczema

  • seizure disorder

  • serious or chronic illness

  • sleep apnea

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to dextromethorphan, promethazine, phenothiazines, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Do not use this medicine in children less than 2 years of age.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • alcohol or alcohol-containing products

  • barbiturate medicines like phenobarbital

  • epinephrine

  • medicines for depression, anxiety or psychotic disturbances

  • medicines for Parkinson's disease

  • medicines for sleep

  • medicines for the stomach like metoclopramide, dicyclomine, glycopyrrolate

  • pain medicines

  • radio contrast dyes

  • sibutramine

  • some medicines for cold or allergies

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • changes in vision

  • confused, disoriented, excitable

  • fast, irregular heartbeat

  • fever, sweating

  • hallucinations

  • high or low blood pressure

  • lightheaded

  • muscle stiffness

  • seizures

  • tremors, twitches

  • yellow eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • congestion in the nose

  • dry mouth

  • nausea, vomiting

  • stomach upset

  • trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert