Basic Phenergan Information

• INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Promethazine hydrochloride
• Brand Names Available in Australia: Phenergan
• ATC Code: R06AD02
• Forms & Dosages: Tablets (10mg, 25mg), Elixir (1mg/mL)
• Manufacturers in Australia: Sanofi-Aventis Australia Pty Ltd
• Registration Status in Australia: Registered with TGA (AUST R 80159, 80160 for tablets; 61576 for elixirs)
• OTC / Rx Classification: Prescription medication (Rx)

Critical Warnings & Restrictions

Phenergan (promethazine hydrochloride) is a medication that must be used with caution in specific populations, particularly the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses. The sedative effects of this medication can lead to increased risks of confusion, falls, and other complications in these vulnerable groups. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consult their healthcare provider before using Phenergan due to potential risks to their fetus or infant. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has classified promethazine as requiring caution in these demographics.

High-Risk Groups

Certain groups are at an elevated risk when it comes to using Phenergan:

• Elderly: There's a heightened likelihood of sedation and confusion, leading to increased fall risks.
• Pregnancy: The potential for harm to the baby necessitates consulting healthcare providers.
• Chronic illnesses: Patients with liver or kidney impairment must be monitored closely.

Interaction with Activities

Due to its sedative properties, driving or operating heavy machinery after taking Phenergan is not advised. Sedation could significantly impair alertness and reaction times. Patients should strictly adhere to Australian workplace safety standards when using this medication.

Q&A — “Can I Drive After Taking It in Australia?”

A: It is not recommended to drive after taking Phenergan due to its sedative effects that can impair judgement and reaction time.

Access & Purchase Options

Phenergan is readily available in Australia, giving consumers multiple ways to access this essential medication. Major pharmacy chains, including Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and TerryWhite Chemmart, consistently stock both tablet and elixir forms of Phenergan. These retailers offer consultation support, helping patients use the medication safely according to their health needs.

In recent years, the rise of online pharmacies has transformed how patients access Phenergan. Many of these online platforms now offer e-prescription services, enabling individuals to manage their health from the comfort of home. Telehealth has made it easier for patients to consult with healthcare professionals remotely to obtain necessary prescriptions that can seamlessly be ordered online.

Online pharmacies in Australia adhere to strict regulations governing prescription medications, ensuring safety while often providing competitive pricing. This can make medications, including Phenergan, more affordable for all consumers, particularly benefiting those in rural or regional areas where traditional pharmacy access may be limited.

Telehealth services not only enhance access for patients needing regular management but also allow for convenient adjustments to treatment regimens without the hassle of travel. This reflects broader trends towards increased accessibility and convenience in healthcare.

Mechanism & Pharmacology

Phenergan, known generically as promethazine, is classified as a first-generation antihistamine. Its primary action involves blocking histamine receptors, effectively preventing histamine from exerting its typical effects in allergic reactions, motion sickness, and sleep disturbances.

In simple terms:

• Phenergan alleviates discomfort such as itchiness, a runny nose, and watery eyes by obstructing histamine's binding process.
• Specifically for motion sickness, it targets the vestibular system to relieve nausea by inhibiting certain neurotransmitters responsible for inducing these unpleasant sensations.

From a pharmacological perspective:

• Sedative: Phenergan possesses sedative properties beneficial for inducing sleep, particularly in pre-operative settings.
• Anticholinergic: The anticholinergic effects contribute to common side effects, including dry mouth and blurred vision.

This versatile medication must be administered carefully, with appropriate dosages tailored to individual patient factors. A solid understanding of Phenergan's pharmacology is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively counsel patients on its proper usage and potential side effects.

Indications & Off-Label Uses

Phenergan has received approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for several specific indications:

• Allergic conditions: It effectively alleviates allergy symptoms, hay fever, and hives.
• Motion sickness: Often used as a preventive treatment to minimise nausea and vomiting before travel.
• Pre-operative sedation: Administered to ensure patient calmness prior to medical procedures.

Healthcare professionals sometimes prescribe Phenergan for off-label uses in clinical practice:

• Management of insomnia: Its sedative effects can make it a choice for treating sleep disorders.
• Treatment of nausea and vomiting: Used in various contexts, including pregnancy and post-operative care.

Medical practitioners typically gauge these off-label uses against individual patient circumstances, focusing on factors like age and overall health. By informing patients about both approved and off-label uses, treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction can be significantly enhanced.

Key Clinical Findings

Recent studies conducted between 2022 and 2025 have underscored Phenergan's efficacy and safety across diverse clinical applications. Key findings include:

• Motion sickness: Clinical trials confirm Phenergan's effectiveness in significantly reducing travel-related nausea, solidifying its status as a first-line treatment in this area.
• Allergic reactions: Research establishes its utility in managing allergic responses, showcasing rapid symptom relief for patients.
• Sedation practices: Meta-analysis suggests that Phenergan’s sedative properties can be effectively integrated into pre-operative protocols, yielding reliable results when properly administered.

Such studies highlight the importance of understanding Phenergan’s efficacy, alongside its potential side effects. Ongoing professional education and review of findings in reputable Australian journals play a vital role in ensuring prescribing practices remain informed by the latest evidence.

Alternatives Matrix

Exploring alternatives to Phenergan can be beneficial for patients who may experience adverse effects or seek different therapeutic options. An alternatives matrix comparing PBS-listed options highlights these alternatives effectively.

Alternative Medication	Indications	Pros	Cons
Chlorphenamine	Allergies	Non-sedating option	Potential for drowsiness
Cetirizine	Allergy relief	Less sedating	Possible side effects (dizziness, dry mouth)
Loratadine	Allergies	Long-acting	Less effective for acute symptoms
Diphenhydramine	Insomnia, allergies	Strongly sedating	Potential dependency risk

Pros and Cons Checklist:

• Consider medication efficacy, side effects, and individual patient history before prescribing.
• Ensure to pre-assess underlying health conditions, such as respiratory illnesses, which may influence medication choice.

By offering detailed comparisons and guidance on alternatives, healthcare professionals can help patients find the most suitable solutions for their unique health profiles.

Common Questions

Addressing frequently asked questions can provide valuable insights for patients considering Phenergan:

1. Can Phenergan be used for anxiety? Although not primarily indicated for anxiety, its sedative properties may provide short-term relief for anxiety symptoms; however, ongoing use isn't recommended without professional guidance.
2. Is Phenergan safe for children? Phenergan is not recommended for children under 2 years due to severe risks. For older children, it can be used but with careful dosage and supervision by a healthcare provider.
3. How long does it take for Phenergan to work? Most patients report noticeable effects within an hour, with maximum sedation typically occurring within 2 to 6 hours post-administration. Timing may vary based on individual health status.

These common questions reflect the concerns and queries typical among Australian patients and can aid in ensuring proper and safe medication management.

Suggested Visual Content

Developing visual content can enhance patient understanding and usage of Phenergan. Suggested material may include:

• Infographic on PBS Pricing: Display various costs associated with Phenergan prescriptions, including PBS subsidies and out-of-pocket fees for different formulations (tablet vs elixir).
• Pharmacy Network Map: Illustrate the availability of Phenergan across major pharmacy chains in Australia, potentially highlighting areas with limited access.

Creating easy-to-understand visuals allows patients to comprehend their treatment options quickly and improves their engagement with health care resources. Utilising platforms like social media and pharmacy websites for these visuals can further promote patient education and awareness.

Registration & Regulation

Phenergan’s registration status and regulation are essential for ensuring its safe use in Australia. As a medication registered with the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), it undergoes rigorous scrutiny for efficacy and safety.

TGA approval: As of now, Phenergan is classified under TGA registrations AUST R 80159, 80160 for tablets and 61576 for elixir forms. The TGA continuously monitors these products and implements updates based on emerging research.

PBS subsidy details: Phenergan is included on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), providing financial assistance for subsidised medications. The criteria for PBS listing ensure that only medications with proven clinical benefits are available to consumers at reduced costs.

Patients should check their eligibility for PBS subsidies when considering Phenergan. This ensures informed decisions and allows for sustainable healthcare expenditures.

Storage & Handling

Proper storage and handling of Phenergan are crucial for maintaining the medication's efficacy, especially in the warm Australian climate.

Household storage guidelines:

• Store Phenergan below 30°C (86°F), in a dry place and away from direct light.
• Keep elixir tightly sealed and out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Cold-chain handling for pharmacies: Pharmacies must adhere to Australian pharmaceutical regulations regarding cold-chain logistics for medications sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Storage should align with TGA requirements, ensuring products remain effective for patient use.

Regular checks on expiry dates and proper disposal of expired medications are critical. Patients should be educated on recognising signs of spoilage in liquid forms, ensuring they only consume medications that are safe and effective.

By adhering to these guidelines, both individual and pharmacy-based users can ensure the appropriate and safe use of Phenergan.

Guidelines for Proper Use

To maximise the benefits of Phenergan while minimising risks, clear guidelines should be followed.

Australian pharmacist counselling style: Pharmacists play a critical role in advising patients about the correct usage of medications like Phenergan. They should:

• Ensure that patients are aware of potential side effects and interactions.
• Discuss appropriate dosing, particularly in high-risk groups such as the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions.

Patient advice from PBS and national health authorities: Patients should be encouraged to follow prescribing guidelines provided by the PBS and TGA, understanding the importance of adhering to recommended dosages and not using the medication longer than prescribed.

Furthermore, engaging in open communication with healthcare providers about ongoing health conditions and concurrent medications can improve treatment outcomes. Patients need to recognise the signs of possible adverse reactions, such as excessive sedation or respiratory difficulties, prompting them to seek medical attention as needed. This proactive approach towards medication management helps ensure safe and effective use of Phenergan within the Australian healthcare landscape.

Delivery Information

City	Region	Delivery Time
Sydney	New South Wales	5–7 days
Melbourne	Victoria	5–7 days
Brisbane	Queensland	5–7 days
Perth	Western Australia	5–7 days
Adelaide	South Australia	5–7 days
Hobart	Tasmania	5–9 days
Darwin	Northern Territory	5–9 days
Canberra	Australian Capital Territory	5–7 days
Gold Coast	Queensland	5–7 days
Newcastle	New South Wales	5–9 days
Central Coast	New South Wales	5–9 days
Cairns	Queensland	5–9 days