Phenergan (Promethazine) is Contraindicated in Infants Under 2 Years of Age
Promethazine should NOT be administered to a 2-month-old infant under any circumstances. This medication carries significant risks of life-threatening respiratory depression, sedation, and potentially fatal adverse events in this age group 1.
Critical Safety Concerns
The evidence clearly demonstrates that promethazine poses unacceptable risks in young infants:
Severe adverse reactions reported in pediatric patients include significant sedation, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, dystonic reactions, and possibly apparent life-threatening events or sudden infant death syndrome 1
Children under 2 years of age are most vulnerable to the adverse reactions associated with promethazine use 1
The drug has been available only by prescription since 1946 specifically because of these safety concerns 1
Why No Dose Exists for This Age Group
There is no safe or recommended dose of promethazine for a 2-month-old infant. The medical literature and pediatric emergency guidelines do not provide dosing for infants under 2 years because the risks outweigh any potential benefits 1. The absence of dosing recommendations in comprehensive pediatric emergency drug references further reinforces this contraindication 2.
Alternative Approaches
For common indications where promethazine might be considered (nausea, vomiting, allergies, sedation), safer alternatives exist for this age group that should be discussed with a pediatric specialist. The specific alternative depends entirely on the underlying condition requiring treatment.
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Never assume that because a medication exists in liquid form or has been "widely used" historically, it is safe for young infants. Promethazine's formulation as a syrup actually increases the risk of inappropriate use in vulnerable age groups 1.