Promethazine/Codeine (By Mouth)

Codeine (KOE-deen), Promethazine (proe-METH-a-zeen)

Treats cough, runny or stuffy nose caused by flu, allergies, or the common cold. This medicine is a combination that contains a narcotic cough suppressant.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to codeine or promethazine or similar medicines such as Compazine®, Thorazine®, Darvocet®, Percocet®, or Demerol®. You should not use this medicine if you have asthma or similar breathing problems.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Measure this medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using an MAO inhibitor (Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, Parnate®).
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These may include sleeping pills, other cold and allergy medicine, other narcotic pain relievers, sedatives, or certain antidepressants.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have fever, allergies, stomach problems, seizures, sleep apnea, glaucoma, ulcers, prostate problems, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid problems, heart disease, diabetes, recent surgery, or a history of head injury, brain tumor, or alcohol or drug problems.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
• This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.
• This medicine may be habit-forming. If you feel that the medicine is not working as well, do not take more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor for instructions. Symptoms of overdose include: Extreme dizziness or weakness, shortness of breath, slow heartbeat, seizures, and cold, clammy skin.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Nightmares, excessive energy (especially in children)
• Seizures
• Shallow breathing, blue lips or nails, noisy breathing
• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Irregular heartbeat
• Problems with urination
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Twitching or muscle movements you cannot control
• Unusual sensitivity to sunlight
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest, increased sweating, itching

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.