Phenergan is a highly effective drug considered as antiemetic and as antihistamine. Sometimes it is given to people with insomnia, mainly because of its strong effects as a sedative. It is chemically known as promethazine hydrochloride. Furthermore, it is also a good drug against motion sickness. Add to that, it possesses good anti-cholinergic and anti-emetic qualities. Learn more about this interesting drug, including whether it should be used in children.
The Use of Phenergan in Children
Should phenergan be used in children? Because of its highly effective antiemetic and antihistamine properties, this drug is good for children as long as they are 5 years old and above. Add to that, only half of the regular oral dosage must be given to them. However, it must never be used in children who are below two years old.
Based on the facts written on the product label, giving this drug to children below two years old had negative effects such as respiratory depression and even death. For children ages 5 and up, it should be administered using the recommended dosage only because excessive amounts can lead to reduced arousal and peripheral apnoea.
Additional Information and Other Interesting Details
This particular medicine has many functions. First, it is used to fight off hyperemesis gravidarum and morning sickness. Second, it can be an effective medication against cough and its symptoms, especially when taken together with dextromethorpan or codeine. Third, some people use it to treat anaphylactoid conditions. Fourth, it has good antihistamine qualities, which are great for the treatment of allergic reactions, allergic rhinitis and hay fever.
Aside from the aforementioned items, this drug is also good in counteracting post-narcotic nausea. Meanwhile, it is also used for preoperative sedation because of its outstanding sedative qualities. Despite these health benefits, proper caution is needed when using this product.
Additionally, it has been known to have undesirable side effects like paresthesia, restless legs and euphoria. For some, it can cause constipation, seizures and dry mouth. It can also lead to fatigue, dizziness and drowsiness. For elderly people, it may cause confusion. In extremely rare cases, some individuals may develop neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Although it is sold as a prescription drug in the U.S., it is considered as an over-the-counter drug in other countries such as Australia, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Two of its major ingredients include sodium metabisulphite and sodium sulphite. When treating allergic reactions, it is good to combine it with the so-called oral decongestants such as pseudoephedrine.
