It's really annoying when you have a runny nose, a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and constant sneezing, isn't it? Sometimes allergies are the same. So at times like this, a doctor might give you a bottle of syrup and say, "Drink some of this, it'll go away." Today we're talking about a combination of two such commonly used medications, Promethazine and Phenylephrine.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
This is actually a combination of two types of medication.
1. Promethazine: This is an antihistamine . It is when the body produces a chemical called histamine that the eyes become red, itchy, and the nose runs like in an allergy. So this medicine works by controlling that process.
2. Phenylephrine: This is a decongestant . It works by constricting the blood vessels inside the nose, reducing nasal congestion and making it easier to breathe.
So, when these two are combined, many symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose, and itchy eyes caused by colds, flu, or allergies are relieved.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before using this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions, as this medicine may interact with some medical conditions.
| Illness or condition | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. |
| Glaucoma condition | There is a possibility of increasing eye pressure. |
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Blood pressure and heart rate can change. |
| Liver diseases | Because the liver helps remove drugs from the body, liver disease can affect it. |
| Seizure disorder | There is little chance that this situation will escalate. |
| Sleep apnea | This condition can worsen because it increases drowsiness. |
| Thyroid disease | It is important to be informed because of the possible effects on heart rate. |
| Difficulty urinating/enlarged prostate | This medicine may make it more difficult to urinate. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In such cases, the doctor must decide whether this medication is appropriate or not. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or substances | If you have had an allergy to something in the past, it is very important to mention it. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
Consider these points when using this medicine.
- Take this medicine (syrup or tablets) with a glass of water.
- Most importantly: Take the dose exactly as your doctor tells you. If it's syrup, use the special measuring spoon or cup provided for it. Don't measure with the teaspoons or tablespoons you have at home. They aren't accurate.
- Take your medicine at the prescribed time. Do not take more than the doctor tells you to.
When given to small children
This medicine is sometimes prescribed to children over the age of 2. But only under special care. Do not give this medicine to children under the age of 2 for any reason. It can have dangerous effects on the child's breathing.
Elderly people
People over the age of 65 may feel the effects of this medicine a little stronger. Therefore, they are usually prescribed a lower dose.
What if I take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Other things that may interact with the medication
It is not advisable to take this medicine with other medications. Therefore, inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, whether prescribed by a doctor, purchased from a pharmacy, Ayurvedic medicines, vitamins, or even herbal supplements.
In particular, you should avoid taking this medicine with the following:
- MAOI antidepressants
- Some stimulant drugs
- Migraine medications such as ergotamine
In addition, the effects of this medicine may change with many things, such as alcohol, other medications that cause drowsiness (painkillers, other medications for colds, medications for mental illness), and medications for heart disease. Therefore , it is safest to give your doctor a complete list.
What side effects can be expected?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| Severe drowsiness/difficulty breathing (CNS Depression) | Slow breathing, shallow breathing, severe dizziness, and drowsiness that cannot be awakened. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast, irregular heartbeat. |
| Increased blood pressure | Symptoms such as severe headache and chest pain. |
| Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome | High fever, muscle stiffness, excessive sweating, and confusion. This is a very serious condition. |
| Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) | Uncontrollable body movements, tremors, muscle twitching, restlessness. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they are bothersome | |
| Drowsiness, dizziness | This medicine is common. Avoid driving or doing anything that requires attention. |
| Dry mouth and eyes | Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking water can help. You can use lubricating drops for the eyes. |
| Constipation | Drink plenty of water and eat foods with fiber (fruits, vegetables). |
| Restlessness, insomnia | While some people may feel sleepy, others may have trouble sleeping. |
Take-Home Message
- Take the dose your doctor prescribes, exactly as directed. If it is syrup, use only the measuring cup that comes with it.
- Avoid giving this medicine to children under 2 years of age .
- You may feel sleepy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Therefore, avoid driving and activities that require alertness until you get used to it.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking.
- If you experience a serious side effect such as severe allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, or rapid chest pain, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- Keep the medicine bottle out of the reach of children, away from light, and at room temperature. Throw away after expiration.
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