HealthSquare.com

Your Prescription Drug Destination
See all our sites for your special health needs at www.HealthCentral.com
  • Font size
  • Bookmark

Phenergan Oral

Generic Name: PROMETHAZINE - ORAL
Pronounced: (pro-METH-uh-zeen)

Phenergan Oral Warning

Promethazine should not be used in children younger than 2 years since it might cause slow/shallow breathing (respiratory depression), which in some cases could be fatal. In this age group, this problem has occurred even with normal doses.

Use this drug with caution in children older than 2 years. The lowest effective dosage should be used, and other drugs that affect breathing should be avoided. Seek immediate medical attention in the unlikely event that slow/shallow breathing occurs.

In children, drugs for nausea should only be used in cases of prolonged vomiting when the cause is known. Avoid use of promethazine in children with liver disease (including possible Reye's syndrome).

Phenergan Oral Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, blurred vision, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor.

Some people, particularly children, may experience excitability rather than drowsiness.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

  • lack of coordination
  • severe dizziness
  • ringing ears
  • fainting
  • slow heartbeat
  • mental/mood changes (e.g., hallucinations, nervousness, irritability)
  • involuntary movements (e.g., fixed upward stare, neck twisting, tongue movements)
  • restlessness
  • shaking (tremor)
  • decreased/painful urination
  • weakness
  • vision changes (e.g., double vision)


Stop taking this medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

  • slow/shallow breathing
  • signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat)
  • severe abdominal pain
  • persistent nausea/vomiting
  • easy bleeding/bruising
  • yellowing eyes/skin
  • dark urine


This drug may infrequently cause a very serious (rarely fatal) nervous system disorder (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking this medication and seek immediate medical attention:

< Page 1   2   >
  • Font size
  • Bookmark

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

View all questions (1407) >
Free Newsletter
Get weekly updates, news alerts and more on allergy and related health conditions.