Warning

Compazine (prochlorperazine) is an antipsychotic medication used to treat severe nausea, vomiting, and certain mental/mood disorders. While it’s effective for these conditions, it comes with potential risks:

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms: These include tremors, rigidity, and involuntary movements, which can be similar to Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
• Sedation: It can cause drowsiness and affect your ability to perform tasks that require alertness.
• Dry Mouth and Constipation: Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: It may cause dizziness or fainting when standing up quickly due to lowered blood pressure.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Although rare, this serious condition involves high fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.
• Tardive Dyskinesia: Long-term use can lead to involuntary, repetitive movements, which might be irreversible.

It’s important to use Compazine under medical supervision to manage these risks effective

Why is this medication prescribed?

Compazine (prochlorperazine) is primarily prescribed for:

• Severe Nausea and Vomiting: It’s often used when other treatments for nausea and vomiting are ineffective, especially in cases related to chemotherapy or surgery.
• Psychotic Disorders: It can help manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other severe mental or mood disorders.
• Severe Anxiety: In some cases, it might be used to help with severe anxiety, though this is less common.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Compazine should be used:

• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. Dosages can vary based on the condition being treated, age, and other health factors.
• Forms: Compazine is available in several forms, including tablets, suppositories, and injectable solutions. The form and dosage will depend on your specific needs.
• Administration: If you’re taking tablets, they should be swallowed whole with water, not chewed or crushed. For suppositories, follow the directions for insertion.
• Timing: It’s important to take it at the same time(s) each day to maintain consistent levels in your body.
• Avoid Alcohol: Combining Compazine with alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, such as sedation and dizziness.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for side effects and adjust the dosage if needed.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized instructions and any questions about how to use Compazine safely.

Other uses for this medicine

Other Uses for Compazine:

• Severe Anxiety: Though not its primary use, Compazine can sometimes be prescribed off-label for severe anxiety.
• Migraine: It may be used to treat nausea associated with migraines, especially in cases where other treatments haven’t been effective.
• Intractable Hiccups: In some cases, Compazine is used for persistent or severe hiccups that do not respond to other treatments.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Compazine:

• Medical History: Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, heart disease, glaucoma, seizures, or Parkinson’s disease, as these conditions can affect how you respond to the medication.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Compazine may not be recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, due to potential risks to the fetus. It can also pass into breast milk, so consult your doctor if you’re breastfeeding.
• Elderly Patients: Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, such as sedation or orthostatic hypotension. Dosages may need to be adjusted.
• Interactions: Notify your healthcare provider of all other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Compazine can interact with other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects.
• Avoid Alcohol and Other Sedatives: Alcohol and other central nervous system depressants can amplify the sedative effects of Compazine.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Watch for any unusual symptoms like severe muscle stiffness, high fever, or uncontrolled movements, and report these to your doctor immediately.
• Discontinuation: Don’t suddenly stop taking Compazine without your doctor’s guidance, as it might lead to withdrawal symptoms or worsening of your condition.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and report any concerns or side effects you experience while taking Compazine.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of Compazine and increase the risk of side effects.
• Limit Caffeine: Caffeine might exacerbate nervousness or anxiety in some people, though this is not always a concern. Discuss with your doctor if you consume large amounts of caffeine.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration, especially if Compazine causes dry mouth or constipation.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose—do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Routine: If you’re unsure about what to do, refer to your medication schedule or contact your healthcare provider for specific instructions on missed doses.
• Consistency: Try to take Compazine at the same time(s) each day to help remember to take it and maintain consistent blood levels.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Compazine (prochlorperazine) can cause a range of side effects, some of which may require medical attention. Here are the potential side effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness: Sedation or excessive tiredness.
• Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production leading to a dry feeling in the mouth.
• Constipation: Difficulty or infrequent bowel movements.
• Blurred Vision: Visual disturbances or difficulty focusing.
• Dizziness: Lightheadedness or feeling unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
• Weight Gain: Potential increase in body weight.

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Includes tremors, rigidity, and involuntary movements, similar to Parkinson’s disease.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but serious condition with symptoms like high fever, severe muscle rigidity, and altered mental state. Requires immediate medical attention.
• Tardive Dyskinesia: Involuntary, repetitive movements, which may become permanent. Often associated with long-term use.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing.
• Elevated Blood Sugar: Monitoring may be necessary for diabetic patients or those with prediabetes.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting.

Other Possible Side Effects:

• Restlessness: Feeling agitated or unable to stay still.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty urinating or decreased urine flow.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Issues such as reduced libido or difficulty achieving orgasm.
• Elevated Liver Enzymes: Potential liver function abnormalities.

If you experience severe side effects or symptoms that concern you, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For any side effects that persist or become bothersome, discussing them with your doctor can help manage and mitigate these effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Compazine:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Compazine at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and light. Typically, this means keeping it between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Containers: Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from moisture and contamination.
• Out of Reach: Store Compazine out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Drug Take-Back Programs: The best way to dispose of unused or expired Compazine is through a drug take-back program or a pharmacy disposal service. Many communities have designated sites for safe disposal of medications.
• Disposal Instructions: If no take-back programs are available, follow any specific disposal instructions provided with the medication. Some medications come with disposal pouches or instructions for flushing.
• Avoid Flushing: Unless specifically instructed to do so, do not flush medications down the toilet or sink, as this can contribute to environmental contamination.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms might include severe drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or agitation. In extreme cases, it could lead to severe muscle rigidity, high fever, or irregular heartbeats.
• Immediate Steps: If an overdose is suspected, seek medical help immediately. Contact emergency services (911) or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Information for Healthcare Providers: When seeking emergency care, provide details about the amount of Compazine taken and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Follow-Ups: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor the effectiveness of Compazine and to check for side effects. Blood tests or other evaluations may be needed based on your health condition.
• Adherence: Take Compazine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dose or stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
• Interactions: Be aware of potential drug interactions. Inform your healthcare provider of all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Manage lifestyle factors like diet and alcohol consumption, which may interact with Compazine or affect its effectiveness.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep contact information for your healthcare provider or local poison control center handy in case of questions or emergencies related to Compazine.

Always follow the guidance provided by your healthcare provider and the instructions included with your medication for safe and effective use.