Promethazine VC with codeine syrup is a prescription cough syrup used to treat cough and upper respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose. It contains two medications – promethazine and codeine.
What is promethazine?
Promethazine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. Histamine is a natural chemical released by the immune system during an allergic reaction. By blocking histamine, promethazine helps reduce allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and itching. Promethazine also has sedative effects that can help suppress coughing.
What is codeine?
Codeine is an opioid cough suppressant that works by depressing the cough reflex in the brain. It helps control coughing by reducing the urge to cough. Codeine also has mild pain-relieving effects.
What are the uses of promethazine VC with codeine syrup?
Promethazine VC with codeine syrup is used to treat the following conditions:
- Cough – codeine suppresses the cough reflex
- Common cold symptoms – promethazine relieves sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes
- Allergies – promethazine blocks histamine effects
- Upper respiratory tract infections – the combination of promethazine and codeine relieve cough and other symptoms
This medication provides relief of multiple cold and allergy symptoms by combining the effects of an antihistamine (promethazine) with a cough suppressant (codeine).
How does promethazine VC with codeine syrup work?
Promethazine VC syrup contains both promethazine and codeine. Here is how each medication works:
Promethazine
- Blocks histamine receptors to prevent or reduce allergic symptoms
- Has sedative effects that provide relief from coughing
Codeine
- Activates opioid receptors in the brain to depress the cough reflex
- Provides mild pain relief
Together, these two medications provide relief for coughing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itching associated with colds and allergies.
What are the side effects of promethazine VC with codeine syrup?
Possible side effects of promethazine VC syrup include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Headache
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
Children may experience excitability instead of sedation.
Codeine may cause more serious side effects including:
- Breathing problems
- Confusion
- Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly after prolonged use
- Dependence and addiction with long-term use
Who should not use promethazine VC with codeine syrup?
Promethazine VC syrup should not be used by:
- Children under 12 years old
- Adults over 65 years old
- Pregnant women – may harm the fetus
- Breastfeeding women – codeine and promethazine pass into breast milk
- People with breathing problems such as asthma, COPD, sleep apnea
- People with a history of drug or alcohol addiction
- People with severe kidney or liver disease
- People taking antidepressants called MAOIs
Is promethazine VC a controlled substance?
Yes, promethazine VC is a controlled substance due to the codeine content. It is a Schedule V drug, which means it has a low potential for abuse relative to more restrictive drug schedules. However, promethazine VC can be habit forming with prolonged use.
How is promethazine VC with codeine syrup taken?
Promethazine VC syrup is taken by mouth after being carefully measured with the dosing cup or dropper provided by the pharmacy. Always use the measuring tool to ensure proper dosage.
The usual dosage is:
- Adults: 5-10 mL every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Children: Not recommended for those under 12 years old
Carefully follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor. Never exceed the recommended dose.
It’s important to drink plenty of fluids when taking promethazine VC syrup to avoid dehydration. Avoid alcohol while using this medication due to increased risk of side effects.
What precautions should be taken with promethazine VC syrup?
- Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor
- Only use the dosing tool provided to measure the dose accurately
- Shake the bottle well before each use
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you
- Do not drink alcohol while taking promethazine VC
- Consult your doctor before taking any other medications with promethazine VC
- Store at room temperature away from excess heat, moisture, and direct light
- Keep the medication out of reach of children
- Dispose of any unused syrup appropriately
What should be done in case of an overdose?
An overdose of promethazine VC syrup can be fatal, especially in children. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Slowed or stopped breathing
- Excessive sedation
- Confusion
- Pinpoint pupils
- Very slow heart rate
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of consciousness
- Coma
Conclusion
Promethazine VC with codeine syrup is an effective cough suppressant and antihistamine combination medication. However, it does have the potential for abuse and addiction due to the codeine content. It’s important to use promethazine VC only as directed by a doctor and avoid use in high-risk groups such as children and the elderly. The medication should be stored securely and disposed of properly to prevent misuse. When taken correctly under proper medical supervision, promethazine VC syrup can provide safe and effective relief from cough and allergy symptoms.
