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What is promethazine?

Describe (briefly) class, MOA, indications and any major contra-indications or adverse effects.

User Alan Moore
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Final answer:

Promethazine is a phenothiazine with antiemetic, antinausea, and antihistamine effects, primarily used to treat allergic reactions and motion sickness. It works by blocking various neurotransmitter receptors and can potentiate the effects of analgesics and sedatives. It has contraindications related to hypersensitivity and CNS depression, with side effects such as sedation and respiratory depression.

Step-by-step explanation:

Promethazine Overview

Promethazine is a medication that belongs to a group known as phenothiazines, which are commonly used in medical practice and have properties such as antiemetic, antinausea, and antihistaminic effects. It works mainly by blocking histamine H1 receptors and also possesses some anticholinergic activity. It is commonly used to treat allergic reactions, motion sickness, and nausea, but it also has sedative properties. Promethazine can potentiate the effects of analgesics and sedatives.

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

The medication functions by altering the actions of chemicals in your brain and acting as an antagonist at different neurotransmitter receptors, such as dopaminergic, histaminic, cholinergic, and adrenergic receptors.

Indications

Promethazine is indicated for the management of allergic conditions, sedation, nausea and vomiting, motion sickness, and as an adjunct in analgesia.

Contraindications and Adverse Effects

Contraindications include patients with hypersensitivity to promethazine or other phenothiazines, and patients with comatose states or severe central nervous system depression. Major adverse effects can include sedation, respiratory depression (especially in children), confusion, dry mouth, and blurred vision.

User Huu Duy
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