How Effective Is Promethazine for Nausea?

The use of promethazine for nausea is effective in certain individuals on a case by case basis. Promethazine is commonly prescribed by physicians for the treatment of nausea associated with surgeries involving anesthesia, and for motion sickness. It is sold under different brand names by manufacturer, and is only available as a prescription from a trained and licensed health care professional. It is not recommended for use in children under two, and should be closely monitored when given to older children and adolescents.

The active ingredients in this medication work to block three different chemical transmissions which can occur in the body. Those who take promethazine for nausea will initially experience a blocking of several histamine receptors which are commonly triggered during allergic reactions. It also blocks the body's acetylcholine receptors as well, which is the primary reason doctors believe it works as an anti-nausea medication.

The effectiveness of promethazine in the prevention of nausea and vomiting is often dependent on the individual patient. Each person tends to react differently when given certain medications based on the natural chemical interactions that occur inside the body. One patient may react positively to the administration of promethazine for nausea, while another may not experience any relief from it, and continue to feel nauseated. The doctor prescribing this medication may wish to monitor his patient initially to determine if any alleviation of symptoms occur. Promethazine is not recommended by its manufacturers for the treatment of any other type of nausea that is not associated with the side effects of anesthesia or motion sickness.

Promethazine is available in pill and syrup form which can be taken orally. Doctors may also choose to prescribe promethazine for nausea in a rectal suppository form, for individuals with symptoms so severe, they limit their ability to take anything by mouth. Those who are hospitalized and experience nausea as a side effect of surgery may receive this medication intravenously.

Several regulating agencies have determined that prescribing promethazine for nausea in young children is not effective. In children under the age of two, this medication has been clearly shown to cause breathing difficulties which, in some, can become fatal. Promethazine can be taken by older children, however, it is recommended that only low dosages be used. Doctors typically determine the necessity of using this medication by first locating the source of the nausea and vomiting, and do not prescribe it when the cause is unknown, or the symptoms have only presented themselves for a short period of time.