ABSTRACT

Promethazine is a phenothiazine derivative with antihistaminic, sedative and antiemetic properties. It selectively blocks peripheral H1 receptors, thereby diminishing the effects of histamine on effector cells. This chapter provides monographs of promethazine which have caused contact allergy/allergic contact dermatitis. The monographs present: identification section; contact allergy (general population, patients with dermatitis, case reports and case series); cross-reactions; patch test sensitization; photocontact allergy; and immediate contact reactions (contact urticaria). The identification section presents IUPAC names, synonyms, CAS and EC numbers, structural and chemical formulas, Merck Index monographs, and advises on patch testing. The chapter also covers an extensive amount of information to benefit dermatologists, allergists, and all others interested in drug allergy.