Promethazine Addiction
Promethazine addiction is a growing concern in the United States. More and more young adults are experimenting with the combination of promethazine and codeine, increasing their chances of dependency and overdose. If you’ve never heard of promethazine, then you aren’t the only one. Our Palm Beach rehab knows that many people aren’t aware of what promethazine hydrochloride is and its side effects. That’s why we’re sharing important information about it to keep in mind.
What Is Promethazine and How Does It Work?
Promethazine is a prescription antihistamine and antiemetic derived from phenothiazine. Brand names for promethazine include Promethegan, Phenadoz, and Phenergan. Promethazine is used to treat conditions like:
- Allergies
- Cold symptoms
- Motion sickness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety
- Pain
- Insomnia or inability to sleep
As an antihistamine, promethazine works by blocking histamines, which are chemicals released by the immune system when it senses foreign objects in the body. When the body senses an “attack” from toxins and other allergy-causing invaders, it causes the body to release as much of these toxins as possible. An allergic reaction may consist of vomiting, watery eyes, sweating, and even coughing - all actions the body induces in order to rid itself of the allergy-causing substances. Antihistamines like promethazine control these symptoms so the person isn’t as uncomfortable.
Promethazine Side Effects
Promethazine disrupts the body’s ability to regulate inflammation, concentration, and pain. It also blocks the immune system’s release of histamines, causing drowsiness and sedation.
Additional side effects of promethazine include:
- Fluctuation in blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing
- Increased sensitivity to the sun
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
- Bruising
- Inability to sleep
- Dry mouth
- Nightmares
- Ringing in the ears
- Organ damage and failure
- Seizures
The symptoms of promethazine can become more severe when it’s mixed with other substances, like codeine. People who struggle with promethazine abuse are encouraged to seek out an addiction treatment program that can address the symptoms they struggle with and what makes them feel the need to persist in using them despite the negative consequences.
Is Promethazine Addictive?
Promethazine is addictive. Not only can it cause dependency on its own, but it’s most commonly abused among opioid users. Technically, you can get high off promethazine, but not when it is taken on its own. When taken by itself, promethazine can cause drowsiness and sedation. When mixed with opioids like codeine, promethazine can alleviate pain, induce sedation, and produce feelings of euphoria. Promethazine users become hooked on these side effects and may continue using them as a result. Over time, this can lead to a full-blown addiction.
Because it’s an antihistamine, many people believe that promethazine is harmless. This is far from the truth. People who engage in any form of substance abuse are at risk of dependency and even overdose.
Some symptoms of promethazine overdose include:
- Dizziness and confusion
- Uncontrollable tremors
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Severe drowsiness or sedation
- Blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Coma
The side effects of promethazine addiction can be detrimental and life-changing in the worst ways possible. It can affect not only a person’s physical health but their mental health as well.
Treating Mental Illness Resulting From Substance Abuse
One of the most significant consequences of drug abuse is the deterioration of mental health. Substance abuse can cause a range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. It can also exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions, leading to more severe symptoms and a greater risk of developing other mental health issues. Drug abuse can also result in significant cognitive impairment, including memory loss, decreased problem-solving skills, and an inability to concentrate.
For those who have found their mental health deteriorated after abusing substances like promethazine, Banyan Boca Raton can help them recover with the guidance of our trained and licensed staff of professionals. This is accomplished through the use of our effective Florida mental health services, with options to address a number of disorders and illnesses. The physical and emotional effects of drug addiction can take a toll on anyone. Promethazine is one of the many dangerous substances that should always be handled with care.
If you find yourself or someone you know struggling with the mental consequences of drug abuse or addiction, call Banyan Boca today at 888-280-4763 to learn how our programs can help.
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