Promethazine-Phenylephrine
Pronounced
"pro-METH-uh-zeen/fen-ill-EFF-rin"
Uses
See also Warning section.
This combination medication is used to temporarily relieve symptoms caused by the common cold or allergies. Promethazine is an antihistamine that relieves watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing. Phenylephrine is a decongestant that helps relieve stuffy nose and ear congestion symptoms.
Cough-and-cold products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects if not used properly. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).
Warning
Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (including some long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy.
This product is not recommended for use in children younger than 2 years since it might cause serious (possibly fatal) slow/shallow breathing. In children 2 years and older, carefully follow the doctor's directions to use the lowest effective dose. Do not give more often than prescribed. Talk to the doctor or pharmacist before giving other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients that might also affect breathing. Get immediate medical help if you notice unusual slow/shallow breathing.
How to Use This Medication
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 to 6 hours as needed. This medication may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 1 week, if it gets worse, or if it occurs with a headache that doesn't go away, fever, or rash. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor.
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