Codeine And Promethazine: What Should I Discuss With My Doctor Before Taking Codeine And Promethazine

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking codeine and promethazine?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to codeine, phenylephrine, or promethazine, or if you have high blood pressure, a blood vessel disorder, or asthma.

Before taking codeine and promethazine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;
• glaucoma;
• a stomach ulcer or digestive obstruction;
• a weak immune system;
• Addison's disease;
• enlarged prostate, urination problems;
• high or low blood pressure or heart disease;
• liver or kidney disease;
• underactive thyroid;
• gallbladder disease; or
• a head injury or brain tumor.

Codeine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Codeine and promethazine should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. It could also cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes codeine and promethazine during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Codeine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. The use of codeine by some nursing mothers may lead to life-threatening side effects in the baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medication to a child without the advice of a doctor.

Last updated:	March 24, 2008