Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Promethazine requires a valid prescription.
Promethazine
Generic Name: PROMETHAZINE HYDROCHLORIDE
DESCRIPTION Each rectal suppository contains 12.5 mg or 25 mg promethazine HCl with ascorbyl palmitate, cocoa butter, colloidal silicon dioxide, and white wax.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Promethazine Used For?
- Allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods.
- Mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema.
How Does It Work?
Promethazine is an H 1 receptor blocking agent.
Dosage & Administration
- Allergy - The average dose is 25 mg taken before retiring; however, 12.5 mg may be taken before meals and on retiring, if necessary.
- Single 25 mg doses at bedtime or 6.25 to 12.5 mg taken three times daily will usually suffice.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- WARNINGS PROMETHAZINE HCl SUPPOSITORIES SHOULD NOT BE USED IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS LESS THAN 2 YEARS OF AGE BECAUSE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR FATAL RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION.
- CAUTION SHOULD BE EXERCISED WHEN ADMINISTERING PROMETHAZINE HCl TO PEDIATRIC PATIENTS 2 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER.
- IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT THE LOWEST EFFECTIVE DOSE OF PROMETHAZINE HCl BE USED IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS 2 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER AND CONCOMITANT ADMINISTRATION OF OTHER DRUGS WITH RESPIRATORY DEPRESSANT EFFECTS BE AVOIDED.
- Use of Promethazine HCl Suppositories in patients with compromised respiratory function (e.g., COPD, sleep apnea) should be avoided.
- It should be used with caution in persons with seizure disorders or in persons who are using concomitant medications, such as narcotics or local anesthetics, which may also affect seizure threshold.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- CONTRAINDICATIONS Promethazine HCl Suppositories are contraindicated for use in pediatric patients less than two years of age.
- Promethazine HCl Suppositories are contraindicated in comatose states, and in individuals known to be hypersensitive or to have had an idiosyncratic reaction to promethazine or to other phenothiazines.
- Antihistamines are contraindicated for use in the treatment of lower respiratory tract symptoms including asthma.
Drug Interactions
Promethazine may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
STORAGE Store refrigerated between 2°-8°C (36°-46°F).
Speak to a general physician on Zospital
Consult a general physician on Zospital before starting Promethazine. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Antihistamines & Allergy Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Promethazine – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Promethazine, its uses, dosage and safety.
Promethazine is commonly prescribed in India for: Allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods., Mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema.. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Promethazine is sold in India under brand names such as Phenergan, Promethegan, Phenadoz. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Promethazine is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Promethazine can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Fatigue, Dry mouth, Insomnia, Tremor. Less common but serious side effects can include: Fatal, Agranulocytosis, Seizure. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Promethazine is an H 1 receptor blocking agent.
Promethazine can interact with: Promethazine, Epinephrine, Monoamine. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Promethazine.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Promethazine for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Promethazine depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Promethazine during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹10 – ₹120 per strip of 10 tablets depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Promethazine's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.