Does promethazine affect baby?

Understanding the Effects of Promethazine on Infants
Promethazine, commonly known by its brand name Phenergan, is a medication primarily used to treat allergies, motion sickness, nausea, and to induce sedation. While it can be effective for these purposes, its use, particularly in pregnant or breastfeeding women, raises important questions about its safety for infants.
Potential Risks During Pregnancy
Promethazine is classified as a Category C drug by the FDA, indicating that risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. This means that while animal studies may not show harm, there is insufficient data on its effects in human pregnancies. Notably, using promethazine late in pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory depression in newborns, a serious condition that can lead to breathing difficulties. Therefore, healthcare providers should be informed if a pregnant woman is taking this medication to ensure appropriate monitoring and care for the newborn.
Effects on Breastfeeding Infants
When it comes to breastfeeding, the situation is similarly cautious. Although studies have not definitively established whether promethazine passes into breast milk, there is a concern that it could cause sleepiness in nursing infants. This sedative effect could manifest as lethargy or decreased energy levels in the baby. If a breastfeeding mother is prescribed promethazine, it is crucial to monitor the infant for any signs of unusual sleepiness or lack of energy, and to consult a healthcare provider if such symptoms arise.
Safety in Young Children
Promethazine is not recommended for children under the age of two due to the risk of severe side effects, including respiratory depression. For children aged two and older, while it can be prescribed, it must be done with caution. The medication carries a boxed warning highlighting the potential for serious respiratory issues, which can be particularly dangerous in younger patients.
Conclusion
In summary, while promethazine can be an effective treatment for various conditions, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration due to the potential risks it poses to infants. Healthcare providers should be fully informed of any medications being taken by pregnant or nursing women to ensure the safety and well-being of both mother and child. If there are any concerns about the effects of promethazine on a baby, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

What is the major side effect of promethazine?

Key takeaways: Mild promethazine side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Serious promethazine side effects include trouble breathing, seizures, and movement problems. Many medications and substances (like alcohol) can make promethazine side effects more likely.

Who should avoid promethazine?

Promethazine HCl is contraindicated in comatose states, and in individuals known to be hypersensitive or to have had an idiosyncratic reaction to promethazine or to other phenothiazines. Antihistamines are contraindicated for use in the treatment of lower respiratory tract symptoms, including asthma.

How long does promethazine stay in your system?

Promethazine can last in your system for anywhere between two and four days. Every 10 to 19 hours, the level of promethazine in the blood drops by 50 percent. It can also be detected in urine for 48 to 72 hours after the person’s last use.

Is promethazine safe for babies?

Promethazine may cause breathing to slow or stop, and may cause death in children. Promethazine should not be given to babies or children who are younger than 2 years old and should be given with caution to children who are 2 years of age or older.

Why is promethazine a high risk medication?

Beers Criteria: Promethazine, a first-generation antihistamine, is identified in the Beers Criteria as a potentially inappropriate medication to be avoided in patients 65 years and older (independent of diagnosis or condition) due to its potent anticholinergic properties resulting in increased risk of confusion, dry …

Is it safe to take promethazine while breastfeeding?

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, promethazine can be used during breastfeeding. If you are prescribed promethazine, it’s better to take occasional doses or only for a short time. It’s not known how much promethazine passes into breast milk but it is likely to be a small amount.

What effect does promethazine have on fetus?

Using promethazine late in pregnancy might increase the chance of slowed breathing (respiratory depression) in newborns. It is important that your healthcare providers know you are taking promethazine so that if respiratory depression happens your baby can get the care that is best for them.

What is the safest nausea medication for pregnancy?

Metoclopramide (Maxolon, Pramin) – a simple anti-nausea medication taken anywhere from once to four times a day. This medication has been used for a long time in pregnancy and has a long record of safety. It can be given as a tablet or an intravenous or intramuscular injection.

Does promethazine affect the brain?

It works by blocking certain histamine receptors in your body, which helps to reduce itching, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms. It also affects parts of the brain that control nausea and vomiting. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and dry mouth.

Is promethazine safer than Zofran in pregnancy?

Both Promethazine (Phenergan) and Ondansetron (Zofran) have been shown to be very effective with no adverse effects on the fetus. Ondansetron is less sedating. Reglan (Metoclopramide) and Compazine (Prochlorperazine) are also effective agents with no known adverse effects on the fetus.