- Class
- Antiemetics
- Body system
- Gastrointestinal
- Brand names
- Phenergan, Promethegan
What is Promethazine used for?
- Nausea and vomiting
- Motion sickness
- Allergic reactions
- Sedation
How Promethazine works
Phenothiazine derivative that blocks histamine H1, dopamine and acetylcholine receptors.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness and confusion
- Dry mouth and blurred vision
- Hypotension
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
Report right away
- Burning, pain, swelling or color change at an injection site
- Slow breathing
- Uncontrolled movements or high fever
Nursing considerations for Promethazine
- Deep IM injection is the preferred parenteral route. Never give it subcutaneously or into an artery: severe tissue injury and gangrene can occur.
- If it is given IV, follow the label's limits for concentration, rate and a large patent vein, and stop at any complaint of pain or burning.
- Contraindicated in children under 2: fatal respiratory depression. Use caution in older adults (sedation, falls).
Patient teaching
- Avoid alcohol, driving and other sedatives.
- Use sunscreen: it can cause photosensitivity.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Antiemetics practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Promethazine belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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Which antiemetic carries a boxed warning for tardive dyskinesia?
Show answer
Answer A: Metoclopramide Metoclopramide can cause tardive dyskinesia; treatment beyond 12 weeks should be avoided.
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What is the preferred parenteral route for promethazine?
Show answer
Answer A: Deep intramuscular Deep IM is preferred. Subcutaneous and intra-arterial injection are contraindicated because of severe tissue injury.
-
A patient receiving ondansetron has a low potassium level. Why is this a concern?
Show answer
Answer B: It increases the risk of QT prolongation Hypokalemia increases the risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes with ondansetron.
Frequently asked questions
What is Promethazine used for?
Nausea and vomiting; Motion sickness; Allergic reactions; Sedation.
What drug class is Promethazine?
Promethazine belongs to the class antiemetics. Phenothiazine derivative that blocks histamine H1, dopamine and acetylcholine receptors.
What are the nursing considerations for Promethazine?
Deep IM injection is the preferred parenteral route. Never give it subcutaneously or into an artery: severe tissue injury and gangrene can occur. If it is given IV, follow the label's limits for concentration, rate and a large patent vein, and stop at any complaint of pain or burning.
What should patients report while taking Promethazine?
burning, pain, swelling or color change at an injection site; slow breathing; uncontrolled movements or high fever.