Promethazine-Codeine Tips from Pharmacists

• Take promethazine with codeine as needed for symptom relief. Use this medicine at the lowest possible dose for the shortest time. Do not exceed the maximum dose mentioned on the prescription label. It can cause very serious side effects like slowed or shallow breathing.

• Use a dose-measuring device to measure the correct dose and prevent an overdose.

• You can take this medicine with or without food. If it gives you an upset stomach, taking it with food might help.

• Promethazine with codeine can make you feel sleepy and/or dizzy. Do not drive or do other hazardous activities like operating machinery or climbing ladders until you know how you feel on it. Tell your doctor if you develop unusual sleepiness on this drug.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant while on promethazine and codeine. This medicine contains an opioid that can harm the unborn baby and cause problems after birth due to opioid withdrawal in the infant.

• Promethazine with codeine can cause fatal respiratory depression, especially in children. Store the medicine safely out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion by a child. 

• Codeine can increase the risk of constipation. Eat a fiber-rich diet and stay well hydrated to ensure regular bowel movement frequency.