promethazine/phenylephrine - oral

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GENERIC NAME: PROMETHAZINE/PHENYLEPHRINE - ORAL (pro-METH-uh-zeen/fen-ill-EFF-rin)

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Promethazine should not be used in children younger than 2 years since it might cause serious (possibly fatal) slow/shallow breathing. This problem has occurred even with normal doses in this age group. 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. Promethazine should not be used in children with liver disease (including possible Reyes syndrome).

USES: This medication is used to treat runny nose, coughing, sneezing, itchy nose/throat, and itchy/watery eyes caused by allergies or the common cold.Promethazine belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. It works by preventing the effects of a certain natural chemical (histamine).Phenylephrine belongs to a class of drugs known as decongestants. It causes shrinking/narrowing of blood vessels in the nose and sinuses to reduce nasal congestion (stuffy nose).Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

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