Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PROMETHAZINE WITH PHENYLEPHRINE AND CODEINE - ORAL

(pro-METH-uh-zeen WITH fen-ill-EFF-rin AND KO-deen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Phenergan VC w/Codeine

Uses

Promethazine is an antihistamine used to relieve runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing and itchy throat. Phenylephrine is a decongestant that provides relief from nasal or sinus congestion caused by allergies or the common cold. Codeine is a narcotic used to control a cough. The combination provides relief from sinus or nasal congestion and cough caused by the common cold or allergies.

How To Use

Take this medication with food if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication as directed. Do not increase the dose or take it more often or longer than prescribed. This is a strong medication and must only be used for the condition and by the person for which it is prescribed. It should not be used for just any cough or cold. It is helpful to drink plenty of fluids (6-8 glasses a day) to help relieve congestion.

Side Effects

Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, nervousness, restlessness, difficulty urinating, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, headache or constipation may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate, convulsions, hallucinations. Because this medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness, use caution performing tasks requiring alertness and avoid consuming alcohol which can aggravate this effect. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, lung disease, asthma, ulcers, glaucoma, difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate, history of seizures or drug dependency, any allergies. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk; consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, medication for depression or seizures, other narcotic pain medication, cimetidine, quinidine. Tell your doctor if you have taken any MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine) within the last two weeks. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, shaking, numbness or tingling in arms or legs, hot or cold skin, slowed breathing, large and unchanging pupils, and deep sleep or loss of consciousness.

Notes

To prevent constipation, increase your intake of fiber, drink plenty of water and exercise.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.