First-generation phenothiazine antihistamine that blocks H1 receptors, muscarinic receptors, and dopamine D2 receptors. Potent antiemetic (CTZ blockade), sedative, and antipruritic. Also has local anesthetic properties.
At a glance
Class
Phenothiazine Antihistamine / Antiemetic
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Used for motion sickness, nausea/vomiting, and allergic conditions
Used for antiemetic and antihistamine effects
Safety
Antiemetic efficacySedation levelIV site (if IV used — slow push only)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Promethazine?
Promethazine is a phenothiazine antihistamine / antiemetic used in pets. First-generation phenothiazine antihistamine that blocks H1 receptors, muscarinic receptors, and dopamine D2 receptors. Potent antiemetic (CTZ blockade), sedative, and antipruritic. Also has local anesthetic properties.
›What is Promethazine used for in pets?
Promethazine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for motion sickness, nausea/vomiting, and allergic conditions; Used for antiemetic and antihistamine effects.
›What is the Promethazine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Promethazine is typically dosed as follows — Used for motion sickness, nausea/vomiting, and allergic conditions: 0.2–0.5 mg/kg PO/IM/IV (slow) q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Promethazine dose for cats?
For cats, Promethazine is typically dosed as follows — Used for antiemetic and antihistamine effects: 0.2–0.5 mg/kg PO/IM q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Promethazine need a prescription?
Yes. Promethazine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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