See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Promethazine
What does “Promethazine DM 6.25” mean?
“Promethazine DM” is a cough medicine that typically combines:
- promethazine (an antihistamine), and
- dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant).
The “6.25” usually refers to the promethazine strength—most commonly 6.25 mg per dose (often per 5 mL for liquid formulations). Some products also include an additional amount of dextromethorphan per 5 mL, but the exact second ingredient strength depends on the specific product and manufacturer.
Which Promethazine DM product matches “6.25” (tablet vs syrup)?
To identify the exact match, you need the full label text (or an image), because “Promethazine DM” is sold in multiple strengths and forms (especially liquid syrups, but sometimes other formulations exist). The key details to look for are:
- mg of promethazine per 5 mL (or per tablet)
- mg of dextromethorphan per 5 mL (or per tablet)
- whether the bottle says “liquid” and lists “cough syrup,” “oral solution,” etc.
If you share the rest of the wording from the package label (for example, the “x mg/5 mL” line), I can help interpret it more precisely.
What is it used for?
Promethazine DM is generally used for cough symptoms, including cough associated with colds or other minor respiratory illnesses. Promethazine can also cause drowsiness, which is why these products can feel sedating.
What should you watch for with Promethazine DM?
Common safety considerations with promethazine/dextromethorphan products include:
- drowsiness and slowed reaction time (avoid driving or alcohol)
- risk if combined with other sedating medicines
- the possibility of misuse or overdose when taken in higher-than-directed doses
Because promethazine-based cough syrups have important safety warnings in some settings, the safest next step is to confirm the exact formulation on your bottle and follow the dosing instructions exactly.
Do you mean dosing, strength, or a prescription?
“6 25” could also be someone’s shorthand for a prescription label (strength plus dosing instructions). If you tell me whether you mean:
- the concentration on the bottle (e.g., “6.25 mg/5 mL”), or
- the prescribed directions (e.g., “6.25 mL”),
I can translate it into plain dosing/label meaning.
If you paste the exact label line you’re looking at (or upload the text), I’ll pinpoint what “Promethazine DM 6.25” specifically refers to.