Promethazine with codeine is used to relieve severe coughing. It is a combination of an antihistamine (promethazine) and an opioid cough suppressant (codeine). Promethazine works by blocking the effects of histamine, a natural substance in the body that causes allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itching. Codeine works by acting on the brain to suppress the cough reflex.
Promethazine with codeine is available in tablet, syrup, and injection forms. The tablet and syrup forms are taken by mouth, while the injection form is given intravenously (into a vein). The dose of promethazine with codeine is based on the patient’s age, weight, and medical condition. It is important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and to not take more than the recommended dose.
