Synergistic effect of promethazine with gentamycin in frequently recurring pyelonephritis

The effects of promethazine were studied in children with frequently recurring pyelonephritis which was not associated with urological abnormalities. The results of three methods of treatment were compared: 10 children were given a combination of gentamycin and promethazine for 7 days (Group 1), 11 received gentamycin treatment alone for 10 days (Group 2), and 19 (Group 3) were on long-term oral antibiotic prophylaxis (5.6 +/- 2.1 years) with episodes of intensive treatment of recurrences. In a 3-year follow-up period, the number of pyelonephritis recurrences was significantly lower in Group 1 than in Groups 2 and 3. Six out of 19 children in Group 3 had renal scarring. The authors suggest a synergistic effect between gentamycin and promethazine therapy. Promethazine increases antibiotic sensitivity, which could contribute to the elimination of recurring urinary tract infections.