It could almost be called the new wonder drug amongst prescriptions these days. Promethazine (also known as Phenergan) is prescribed to treat a plethora of illnesses or medical problems. Its usages include everything from an allergen blocker, to an anti-nausea medicine, to relieving cold symptoms. Not only does it treat a multitude of ailments, it can be taken in a variety of ways. It can be ingested in a liquid format (a syrup usually with codeine added) or as a pill; or it can be taken rectally as a suppository. Promethazine is in the family of phenothiazines, and is also used as a sedative before surgery.

This medicine has different dosages for its different usages. It should always be used only as directed. As an anti-nausea medicine it should be taken every four to six hours as needed. The same dosing works if it is being taken for relief of cold symptoms. However, if Promethazine is being used to treat allergies it should be taken up to four times a day in correspondence with meal times. If it is used to treat motion sickness it should be taken in as one dose half an hour to an hour before travel. As with all medications, a doctor’s consultation is advised. This is especially true when mixing medications or drugs. Promethazine may have some side effects; if combined with other drugs, including over the counter medications, these side effects could be severe or potentially fatal. Some side effects include (but are not limited to): dizziness, drowsiness, and shortness of breath. Never operate a motor vehicle or heavy machinery when taking it. While Promethazine is used as a sedative for surgeries, it should not be taken as a sleep aid. Also, this medicine can have dire effects on young children. Never give such medicines to small children unless instructed by a health care provider and under close supervision.

In the urban areas of Houston, Texas, Promethazine gained notoriety as a recreational drug. Mixed with soda such as Sprite or Mountain Dew, the cough syrup was dubbed the “purple drank.” It was popularized by a hip hop artist known as DJ Screw. He was later found dead from an overdose on purple drank.

Promethazine is a wonderful discovery for pharmaceutical companies and for people with chronic illnesses and allergies. This medicine is versatile and effective. However, it does need to be taken with supervision and vigilance of proper dosing. A medicine like this can easily take the place of half a cupboard full of over the counter cold and allergy medicine, but should not be taken in recreation or to “get a good night’s sleep.” It is a drug and like all drugs should be used in moderation and with carefulness.