Promethazine should not be used with propylthiouracil (PTU) due to the increased risk of low white blood cell counts and increased risk of infections. The reason for this interaction is not known.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Promethazine is a phenothiazine in the same drug class as chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and trifluoperazine (Stelazine). However, unlike the other drugs in this class, promethazine is not used as an anti-psychotic. It used as an anti-histamine, sedative, and antiemetic (anti-nausea). The body releases histamine during several types of allergic reactions. When histamine binds to its receptors on cells, it stimulates changes within the cells that lead to sneezing, itching, and increased mucus production.
It is recommended that promethazine only be given through an existing intravenous set in a large vein and diluted to concentration no greater than 25mg per mL, not to exceed a rate of administration of 25mg a min. Serious complications including those listed above have resulted from improper parenteral administration, including those requiring surgical intervention and amputation
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