does promethazine get you high

2 min read 18-03-2025

Promethazine is a medication primarily used to treat allergies, nausea, and vomiting. While it doesn't produce the same euphoric high as recreational drugs, some individuals misuse it to experience altered sensations. This article explores the potential for promethazine to cause feelings of euphoria and the significant risks associated with its misuse. Understanding the effects and dangers of promethazine is crucial for safe and responsible use.

How Promethazine Works

Promethazine is an antihistamine with sedative properties. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions. This blocking action can lead to drowsiness, which some people find pleasurable. However, it's important to note that this drowsiness is a side effect, not an intended effect, and is significantly different from the high produced by recreational drugs.

Can Promethazine Get You High?

The experience of a "high" is subjective. While promethazine can cause drowsiness and sedation, which some might interpret as a mild, altered state, it does not produce the euphoric effects associated with stimulants or opioids. The feeling isn't a true "high" in the traditional sense. Rather, it's a side effect of the drug's sedative properties. The feeling can be intensified when combined with other drugs, particularly opioids, which significantly increases the risk of overdose and death.

Risks of Misusing Promethazine

Misusing promethazine, especially in combination with other substances, carries significant health risks:

Respiratory Depression: Promethazine can depress the respiratory system, leading to slowed or shallow breathing. Combining it with opioids dramatically increases this risk, potentially resulting in respiratory failure and death.
Cardiovascular Effects: Promethazine can affect the heart rate and blood pressure, potentially causing dangerous irregularities.
Seizures: High doses of promethazine, or its use with other drugs that lower the seizure threshold, can increase the risk of seizures.
Overdose: Taking more promethazine than prescribed or combining it with other drugs significantly increases the risk of overdose, which can be fatal.
Addiction: Although less common than with other substances, it's still possible to develop a dependence on promethazine.
Serotonin Syndrome: When combined with certain other medications (especially those affecting serotonin levels), promethazine can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Promethazine and Opioids: A Deadly Combination

The combination of promethazine with opioids, such as codeine or hydrocodone, is particularly dangerous. This combination, often referred to as "lean" or "purple drank," significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression, overdose, and death. The synergistic effect of the two drugs intensifies their sedative effects, leading to a higher risk of severe consequences.

What to Do if You or Someone You Know is Misusing Promethazine

If you or someone you know is misusing promethazine, seek help immediately. Contact a medical professional, poison control, or emergency services. Treatment for promethazine overdose may include supportive care, such as managing breathing and blood pressure, and administering medications to reverse the effects of the drug.

Seeking Professional Help for Substance Use

If you are struggling with substance abuse, including promethazine misuse, there are resources available to help. Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional, addiction specialist, or support group. Recovery is possible, and there are people who want to help.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication or altering your medication regimen. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.