Promethegan (rectal)

Promethegan is used to treat allergy symptoms like itching, runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, hives, and itchy skin rashes.

Promethegan also helps prevent motion sickness and treats nausea and vomiting or pain after surgery. It can also be used as a sedative or sleep aid.

Promethegan is not for treating symptoms of asthma, pneumonia, or other lower respiratory tract infections.

Promethegan may also be used for other purposes that are not listed in this medication guide.

Promethegan must not be given to a child younger than 2 years old. This medicine can lead to serious breathing problems or death in very young children.

Promethegan should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old. This medicine can cause serious breathing issues or death in a child younger than 2. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when giving Promethegan to a child of any age.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to Promethegan or to similar medicines like chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, mesoridazine, perphenazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine, or trifluoperazine.

Let your doctor know if you have ever had:

• asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or another breathing problem;
• a history of seizures;
• a weak immune system (bone marrow depression);
• glaucoma;
• an enlarged prostate or issues with urination;
• a stomach ulcer or obstruction;
• heart disease or high blood pressure;
• liver disease; or
• if you have ever experienced a serious side effect while taking Promethegan or any other phenothiazine.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Promethegan may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:

• severe drowsiness, weak or shallow breathing;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might faint;
• confusion, agitation, hallucinations, nightmares;
• seizure (convulsions);
• fast or slow heartbeats;
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking or eye movement);
• easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums);
• sudden weakness or feeling unwell, fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, red or swollen gums, trouble swallowing; or
• severe nervous system reaction--very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, feeling like you might faint.

Common side effects of Promethegan may include:

• drowsiness, dizziness;
• ringing in your ears;
• double vision;
• feeling nervous;
• dry mouth; or
• tiredness, sleep problems (insomnia).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take Promethegan by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

Try to empty your bowel and bladder just before using the Promethegan suppository.

Remove the outer wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. Avoid handling the suppository too long or it will melt in your hands.

For best results from the suppository, lie down after inserting it and hold in the suppository for a few minutes. The suppository will melt quickly once inserted and you should feel little or no discomfort while holding it in. Avoid using the bathroom just after you have inserted the suppository.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using Promethegan.

This medicine can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Promethegan.

Store the rectal suppositories in the refrigerator but do not allow them to freeze.

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include overactive reflexes, loss of coordination, severe drowsiness or weakness, fainting, dilated pupils, weak or shallow breathing, or seizure (convulsions).

Promethegan may affect your thinking or reactions. Be cautious if you drive or do anything that needs you to be alert. Avoid standing up too quickly from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to avoid falling.

Drinking alcohol can increase some side effects of promethazine.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Promethegan can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outside.

Using Promethegan with other medications that cause drowsiness can make you feel even sleepier. Talk to your doctor before taking opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medication for anxiety or seizures.

Other medications may interact with Promethegan, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medications you are using.

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