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Promethazine Dm

Generic: Promethazine Hydrochloride And Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide

Rx only
Antihistamine✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Promethazine DM is a medication used to temporarily relieve coughs and upper respiratory symptoms caused by allergies or the common cold. It works by blocking certain signals in the brain that trigger coughing. Adults typically take it as a liquid, with a starting dose of 1 teaspoonful (5 mL) every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 30 mL in a day, while children aged 6 to under 12 should take ½ to 1 teaspoonful (2.5 to 5 mL) with a maximum of 20 mL daily. It's important to note that this medication should not be used in children under 2 years old due to the risk of serious breathing problems. Additionally, it should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a type of medication used for depression, as this can cause dangerous interactions.

Uses

  • Temporary relief of coughs.
  • Upper respiratory symptoms associated with allergy.
  • Upper respiratory symptoms associated with the common cold.

Dosage

Adults: 1 teaspoonful (5 mL) every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 30 mL in 24 hours.
Children 6 to under 12 years: ½ to 1 teaspoonful (2.5 to 5 mL) every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 20 mL in 24 hours.
Children 2 to under 6 years: ¼ to ½ teaspoonful (1.25 to 2.5 mL) every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 10 mL in 24 hours.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

Side effects

Common

Slight drowsinessdizzinessgastrointestinal disturbancesRespiratory depression

Serious

hallucinationsseizuresconfusionand disorientation
🛑

Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Not for use in children under 2 years due to risk of fatal respiratory depression.
  • Use caution in children 2 years and older due to potential respiratory issues.
  • May impair mental and physical abilities; avoid hazardous tasks.
  • Can lower seizure threshold; use cautiously in those with seizure disorders.
  • Avoid use with other respiratory depressants.

Drug interactions

  • Alcoholincreases sedation effectsMonitor
  • Sedativesmay enhance sedative actionCaution
  • Narcoticsmay increase sedation and require dose adjustmentsCaution
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitorsrisk of severe side effects.Caution

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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).