provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Promethazine Coupon - Promethazine 25mg suppository

promethazine suppository

Generic Promethegan
Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Anaphylaxis, Nausea, Sedation, Motion Sickness
Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Anaphylaxis, Nausea, Sedation, Motion Sickness

Promethazine (Promethegan) is a rectal suppository. It's used to treat different conditions in adults and children, such as allergy symptoms and motion sickness. It can also help with nausea and vomiting from certain procedures. Promethazine (Promethegan) works by blocking several chemicals, including histamine, dopamine, and acetylcholine. This medication is inserted into the rectum, multiple times a day as needed. Promethazine (Promethegan) suppository is an alternative option to the promethazine tablets for people who can't take medications by mouth. Common side effects include drowsiness and dizziness. This medication is available as both brand-name and generic versions.

Last reviewed on May 5, 2024
basics-icon

What is Promethazine (Promethegan)?

What is Promethazine (Promethegan) used for?

  • Runny nose, watery eyes, and other symptoms of allergies

  • Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies

  • Rash, swelling, anaphylaxis, and other symptoms of an allergic reaction

  • Dermographism

  • Treatment or prevention of nausea and vomiting before and after surgery

  • Treatment or prevention of motion sickness

  • Treatment of pain along with other pain medications after surgery

  • Help to relax your body and produce a light sleep, particularly before a procedure

How Promethazine (Promethegan) works

Promethazine (Promethegan) is an antihistamine and an anticholinergic medication. It also blocks a chemical called dopamine.

When promethazine (Promethegan) blocks histamine, it relieves symptoms of allergy, such as rash, watery eyes, and runny nose. It can also cause you to feel drowsy and calm before a surgery.

When promethazine (Promethegan) blocks acetylcholine and dopamine, it helps to relieve symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and motion sickness.

Are you looking for information on promethazine (Phenergan) oral instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsPromethegan
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$122.31(save 72.73%)
GoodRx discount
$33.36
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Promethazine (Promethegan)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Feeling drowsy or tired
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Dry mouth
  • Nervousness
  • blurry vision

Other Side Effects

  • Tremors
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Uncontrollable tongue thrusting
  • Feeling agitated
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Hives
  • Nightmares
  • Trouble sleeping

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, changes in heartbeat, changes in heart rhythm, confusion
  • Breathing problems: slowed breathing, breathing repeatedly stops
  • Excessive drowsiness
  • Seizures

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Stop taking this medicine and get emergency help immediately if any of the following effects occur:

Rare

Symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome; two or more occur together; most of these effects do not require emergency medical attention if they occur alone

Convulsions (seizures)

difficult or unusually fast breathing

fast heartbeat or irregular pulse

high fever

high or low (irregular) blood pressure

increased sweating

loss of bladder control

severe muscle stiffness

unusually pale skin

unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

Abdominal or stomach pain

black, tarry stools

bleeding gums

blood in urine or stools

bloody nose

blurred vision

chest pain or discomfort

chills

clay-colored stools

confusion as to time, place, or person

cough or hoarseness

dark urine

decreased awareness or responsiveness

difficulty or troubled breathing

double vision

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

fever with or without chills

fixed position of eye

headache

heavier menstrual periods

high fever

holding false beliefs that cannot be changed by fact

hyperexcitability

increased or decreased blood pressure

increased sweating

irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

itching

large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

loss of appetite

loss of bladder control

lower back or side pain

mimicry of speech or movements

mutism

nasal stuffiness

nausea

negativism

nightmares

noisy breathing

not breathing

painful or difficult urination

pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin

peculiar postures or movements, mannerisms or grimacing

pinpoint red spots on skin

seeing double

seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there

seizures

severe muscle stiffness

severe sleepiness

shortness of breath

skin rash

slow or irregular heartbeat

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on lips or in mouth

sticking out of tongue

swollen glands

tightness in chest

tremors

uncontrolled twisting movements of neck

unpleasant breath odor

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual excitement, nervousness, or restlessness

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting of blood

wheezing

yellow eyes or skin

Symptoms of overdose

Discouragement

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly

dry mouth

excessive muscle tone

feeling of warmth

feeling sad or empty

irritability

lack of appetite

loss of interest or pleasure

muscle tension or tightness

overactive reflexes

pupils of eyes large and not moving or responding to light

redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest

shakiness and unsteady walk

sudden death

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

unconsciousness

unsteadiness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination

unusual paleness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of skin

continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in ears

cracked, dry, scaly skin

dizziness

drowsiness

excitation

false or unusual sense of well-being

hearing loss

hives or welts

increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight

lack of coordination

loss of strength or energy

muscle pain or weakness

redness or other discoloration of skin

relaxed and calm

sunburn

swelling

unable to sleep

vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Promethazine (Promethegan)

thumbs-up

Pros

Good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills or taking injections

Can be used in people 2 years and older

Available in multiple strengths

thumbs-down

Cons

Might be uncomfortable to use

Can cause drowsiness

Higher risk of side effects in older adults

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Promethazine (Promethegan)

pharmacist
  • Before using promethazine (Promethegan), it's best to have a bowel movement. Also, wash your hands well with soap and water.

    • Unwrap the promethazine (Promethegan) suppository before using it. To make it easier to insert the promethazine (Promethegan) suppository, you can lubricate the tip.

      • When you're ready to insert promethazine (Promethegan) suppository, lie on your side and bend your upper leg towards your stomach. Lift your buttock and use your finger to insert the suppository with the tip going in first. Hold your buttocks together for a few seconds afterwards.

        • Promethazine (Promethegan) can cause you to sunburn more easily. To lower your risk, make sure to limit or avoid sun exposure during treatment with promethazine (Promethegan). Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outside, even on overcast days.

          • Promethazine (Promethegan) can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Don't drive a car or perform dangerous activities until you know how promethazine (Promethegan) affects you. Avoid taking promethazine (Promethegan) with alcohol since this combination can slow down your brain activity, which might lead to slow breathing and excessive sleepiness.

            • Promethazine (Promethegan) can affect the results of certain lab tests, such as glucose or pregnancy tests. Talk with your prescriber if you have concerns about the results of any lab tests while using this medication.

              • Store promethazine (Promethegan) in the refrigerator and only take it out when you're ready to use it. Put the package back in the refrigerator after removing your dose to prevent the suppositories from melting.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Promethazine (Promethegan)

                How long does it take for promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories to work?
                Promethazine (Promethegan) should start to work to relieve your symptoms within a few hours after your dose. For example, if you're taking promethazine (Promethegan) to prevent motion sickness, your healthcare professional (HCP) will ask you to take it 30-60 minutes before you travel.
                How to insert promethazine (Promethegan) suppository?
                Before inserting promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories, wash your hands and put on gloves if desired. Be sure to unwrap the suppository you're going to use. Apply a lubricant to the suppository to make it easier to insert it into your rectum. Next, lie on your side and bend your top leg. While lifting your buttock, insert the suppository (pointed end first) into your rectum, using your finger to push it in about 1 inch (not as far in for children). Wash your hands again afterwards. If you have questions about how to use promethazine (Promethegan), contact your HCP.
                How many promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories can you use in a day?
                Follow your HCP's instructions on what promethazine (Promethegan) dose you should take and when. Taking more than what your HCP tells you can lead to serious side effects, including breathing problems and heart problems. If you or a loved one might have taken too much promethazine (Promethegan), contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room.
                When can I use the bathroom after promethazine (Promethegan) suppository?
                It's best to try to have a bowel movement before your dose. This is so your body can better absorb promethazine (Promethegan). If you have a bowel movement too soon after inserting this medication, it could come out again before the medication has had the chance to get absorbed into your body. Ask your HCP how long you have to wait to have a bowel movement after inserting promethazine (Promethegan).
                Do promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories have to be refrigerated?
                Yes. It's recommended to store promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories in the refrigerator, between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit.
                How long can promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories be out of the fridge?
                Don't keep suppositories outside of the refrigerator for too long. It's best to take them out only when you need a dose. Otherwise, they could get too warm and start to melt. This would make it harder to insert your dose, and it could affect how well the medication works for you.
                Is promethazine (Promethegan) suppository safe while pregnant?
                Promethazine (Promethegan) suppositories haven't been well studied in pregnancy. But HCPs sometimes prescribe promethazine (Promethegan) off-label (not FDA-approved) for relieving nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Please note that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists only suggests promethazine (Promethegan) if Diclegis (doxylamine / pyridoxine) or first-choice options aren't working well. Always discuss with your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) to see what treatment is the best option for you.
                What's the difference between Promethegan and Phenergan?
                Promethegan and Phenergan are two brand name medications that contain the same active ingredient: promethazine. The main difference is how they're taken. Promethegan (promethazine) is a rectal suppository that's inserted into the rectum, while Phenergan (promethazine) is an injection that's typically given deep into the muscles. The brand name Phenergan used to also include the tablets and oral liquid, but those are now only available as generic medications.
                GoodRxEducationalIcon

                How to save using GoodRx

                Compare Prices
                1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                Select your free coupon
                2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                Show coupon to your pharmacist
                3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                Get free couponLearn more
                warings-icon

                What are the risks and warnings for Promethazine (Promethegan)?

                Promethazine (Promethegan) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Potentially life-threatening slow breathing (respiratory depression)

                • Risk factors: Children under 2 years old | History of breathing problems (e.g., sleep apnea, asthma) | Taking other medications that slow down breathing

                  In rare cases, promethazine (Promethegan) can significantly slow down breathing, which can be life-threatening. The risk is higher for children under 2 years old, people with a history of breathing problems, or if you're taking other medications that can cause breathing problems. For this reason, promethazine (Promethegan) isn't recommended for children if they're under the age of 2. If you regularly take medications that can slow your breathing, discuss alternatives with your healthcare team as there might be safer options to treat your condition. If you notice you or your child has slow and shallow breathing, get medical attention right away.

                  risk-warning

                  Excessive sleepiness

                  • Risk factors: Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that cause drowsiness

                    Promethazine (Promethegan) can make you feel very sleepy and affect your ability to think. The risk is higher if you drink alcohol or if you take medications that make you drowsy, such as opioids, sleep medications, or certain antidepressants. Don't drive a car or operate machinery right after using this medication. If you experience symptoms such as slurred speech, lightheadedness, confusion, dizziness, or excessive drowsiness, get medical attention right away.

                    risk-warning

                    Worsening of certain health problems

                    • Risk factors: Glaucoma | Heart problems | Enlarged prostate | Breathing problems | Bladder problems | Stomach ulcer | Liver problems

                      Before taking promethazine (Promethegan), be sure to discuss all of your medical conditions with your primary care provider. Promethazine (Promethegan) can make certain problems worse.

                      risk-warning

                      Higher risk of seizures

                      • Risk factors: Taking medications that make seizures more likely | History of seizures

                        Promethazine (Promethegan) can cause people with a history of seizures to have more frequent episodes. Promethazine (Promethegan) can also raise the risk of seizures in people who take medications that lower seizure threshold, such as tramadol (Ultram). If you have one of the risk factors, talk to your prescriber before using promethazine (Promethegan). Get medical attention right away if you have symptoms such as uncontrolled body movements, repeated eye blinking, tingling in your body, blurry vision, or feeling confused.

                        risk-warning

                        Higher risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)

                        • Risk factor: Taking anticancer medications

                          In some rare cases, promethazine (Promethegan) can lower your white blood cell (WBC) count. This is more likely to happen if you are going through chemotherapy or other anticancer treatments. WBCs are responsible for fighting infections in your body. Low levels of WBC can cause you to get sick more easily. Let a member of your healthcare team know if you have symptoms of an infection, such as fever, chills, or cough, and they'll let you know if you need more medical attention.

                          risk-warning

                          Risk of serious nerve problems (neuroleptic malignant syndrome)

                          • Risk factor: Taking antipsychotic medications

                            Promethazine (Promethegan) can cause a rare, but serious, medical condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). This condition happens when dopamine (a chemical in your body) is not transported correctly in the brain. Certain medications, such as antipsychotics, can raise your risk of NMS. If you take medications for mental health, please talk with your prescriber before taking promethazine (Promethegan). Please get medical attention right away if you notice signs and symptoms such as high fever, fast heartbeat, rapid breathing, stiff muscles, excessive sweating, or confusion. Don't use promethazine (Promethegan) if you have a history of NMS.

                            risk-warning

                            Uncontrollable body movements

                            • Risk factors: Children who are sick and dehydrated | Taking an MAOI

                              Promethazine (Promethegan) can cause involuntary muscle movements including sticking out your tongue and twisting your neck. This risk is higher if you're taking MAOIs or if the medication is given to children who are sick and dehydrated (low fluids in the body). Notify your or your child's pediatrician right away if any of these symptoms develop while using promethazine (Promethegan).

                              dosage

                              Promethazine (Promethegan) dosage forms

                              The average cost for 12 suppositories of 25mg of Promethazine (Promethegan) is $33.36 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 72.73% off the average retail price of $122.31.
                              suppository
                              Suppository
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              12.5mg12 suppositories$33.36$2.78
                              25mg12 suppositories$33.36$2.78
                              50mg12 suppositories$245.72$20.48

                              Typical dosing for Promethazine (Promethegan)

                              Allergy symptoms

                              • Adults and children 2 years and older: The typical dose is 25 mg inserted rectally once daily at bedtime. An alternative dosing is 6.25 mg to 12.5 mg up to three times daily.

                              Motion sickness

                              • Adults: The typical dose is 25 mg inserted rectally 2 times daily. Take your first dose 30 to 60 minutes before you travel, and take the second dose 8 to 12 hours later if needed.

                              • Children 2 years and older: The typical dose is 12.5 mg to 25 mg inserted rectally 2 times daily.

                              Nausea and vomiting

                              • Adults: The typical dose is 12.5 mg to 25 mg inserted rectally every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

                              • Children 2 years and older: Your child's pediatrician will determine the dose for your child based on their body weight. The typical dose is 0.5 mg/lb of body weight inserted rectally every 4-6 hours as needed.

                              "Light" sleep before or during a procedure

                              • Adults: The typical dose is 25 mg to 50 mg inserted rectally once at bedtime the night before the procedure.

                              • Children 2 years and older: The typical dose is 12.5 mg to 25 mg inserted rectally once at bedtime the night before the procedure.

                              Pain relief before and after surgery

                              • Adults: Before surgery, the typical dose is 50 mg inserted rectally and used in combination with other pain medication(s). After surgery, the typical dose is 25 mg to 50 mg taken together with other pain medication(s).

                              • Children 2 years and older: Your child's pediatrician will determine the dose for your child based on their body weight. The typical dose before surgery is 0.5 mg/lb of body weight, in combination with other pain medication(s). The typical dose after surgery is 12.5 mg to 25 mg inserted rectally and taken together with other pain medication(s).

                              More on Promethazine (Promethegan) dosage forms

                              interactions

                              Interactions between Promethazine (Promethegan) and other drugs

                              Promethazine (Promethegan) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Promethazine (Promethegan). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                              • Aminolevulinic Acid
                              • Belladonna
                              • Belladonna Alkaloids
                              • Betel Nut
                              • Evening Primrose
                              • Midodrine
                              • Phenylalanine
                              drug-cost

                              How much does Promethazine (Promethegan) cost?

                              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                              contraindications-icon

                              Promethazine (Promethegan) contraindications

                              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Promethazine (Promethegan) will not be safe for you to take.
                              • Children younger than 2 years old

                              • People in a coma

                              • Treatment of lower respiratory tract problems, such as asthma

                              • Allergic to phenothiazines

                              alternatives

                              What are alternatives to Promethazine (Promethegan)?

                              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Promethazine (Promethegan). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                              Promethazine (Promethegan)
                              Used for:
                              • Runny nose, watery eyes, and other symptoms of allergies

                              • Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies

                              • Rash, swelling, anaphylaxis, and other symptoms of an allergic reaction

                              • Dermographism

                              • Treatment or prevention of nausea and vomiting before and after surgery

                              • Treatment or prevention of motion sickness

                              • Treatment of pain along with other pain medications after surgery

                              • Help to relax your body and produce a light sleep, particularly before a procedure

                              $33.36 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              • Allergies

                              • Common cold symptoms

                              • Trouble sleeping for people 12 years and older

                              $0.68 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              $11.66 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              latest news

                              What is the latest news about Promethazine (Promethegan)?

                              images

                              Promethazine (Promethegan) images

                              This medicine is Colorless, Bullet Suppository.
                              white bullet - Promethazine 25mg Rectal Suppository
                              This medicine is White, Bullet Suppository.white bullet - Promethazine 25mg Rectal Suppository

                              Get savings updates for Promethazine (Promethegan)

                              Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Promethazine (Promethegan) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                              By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                              References

                              Best studies we found

                              American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. (n.d.). Dermatographism.

                              Committee on Obstetric Practice. (2018). Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Practice Bulletin.

                              Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2023). Promethegan- promethazine hydrochloride suppository [package insert]. DailyMed.

                              View All References (8)

                              D’Souza, R. S., et al. (2023). Extrapyramidal symptoms. StatPearls.

                              Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. (2024). Phenergan- promethazine hydrochloride injection [package insert].

                              Kidron, A., et al. (2023). Phenothiazine. StatPearls.

                              Leader, P., et al. (2023). Vasomotor rhinitis. StatPearls.

                              National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Promethazine hydrochloride.

                              National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2024). Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

                              National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2011). Misuse of prescription drugs research report: Overview.

                              SafeMedication. (n.d.). How to use rectal suppositories.

                              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                              Was this page helpful?

                              Browse medications

                              View All

                              Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.