Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. This is promethazine and codeine. It is used to treat cold and allergy symptoms, like a cough or runny nose. It may have other uses, too. You should take this medicine EXACTLY as your doctor tells you to. You must use a measuring spoon to measure each dose. You should not measure it with a household spoon. Most people tolerate this medicine well. You should wait until you know how this medicine affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving or riding a bike. Common side effects include a headache, dry mouth, nausea, constipation and tiredness. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects could occur. With promethazine and codeine these include severe drowsiness and breathing problems. It is very important to read the medication guide to know which symptoms to watch for and when to get emergency help. Promethazine and codeine can interact with other medicines. You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. You should never drink alcohol. This medicine is never safe for children less than 12 years of age. Also, it is not safe for anyone less than 18 years of age who recently had surgery on their tonsils or adenoids. Women should not take this medicine during pregnancy and should not breastfeed. This medicine is controlled by federal law. It can put you and others at risk for addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death. Store it in a safe place. For best results, take this medicine only as directed.