WARNING

Prochlorperazine is an antipsychotic medication that is commonly used to treat nausea, vomiting, and certain mental/mood disorders. Like any medication, it carries potential risks and side effects. It’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and the following information is not exhaustive. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Prochlorperazine can cause movement disorders such as tremors, stiffness, and tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms are more likely to occur at higher doses and with prolonged use.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Although rare, Prochlorperazine can lead to a serious condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome, characterized by hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction.
• Sedation and Drowsiness: Prochlorperazine may cause sedation, drowsiness, and impair cognitive function. It’s important to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until the individual’s response to the medication is known.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Prochlorperazine can cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or fainting. It’s crucial to stand up slowly, especially in older adults.
• Anticholinergic Effects: Prochlorperazine may have anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.
• Blood Disorders: There have been reports of blood disorders, including agranulocytosis and leukopenia, associated with the use of Prochlorperazine.
• Hyperprolactinemia: Prochlorperazine may elevate levels of the hormone prolactin, leading to symptoms such as breast enlargement and lactation, especially in males.
• Seizures: Prochlorperazine may lower the seizure threshold, potentially increasing the risk of seizures in susceptible individuals.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Prochlorperazine, ranging from mild skin rashes to more severe reactions.

It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and any existing health conditions before starting Prochlorperazine or any other medication. They can provide personalized guidance on the risks and benefits based on your individual health profile.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Prochlorperazine is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as phenothiazines. It is prescribed for various medical conditions, and its use can be categorized into different indications:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Prochlorperazine is often prescribed to relieve nausea and vomiting associated with various conditions, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and certain gastrointestinal disorders.
• Mental/Mood Disorders: It may be used in the treatment of certain mental/mood disorders, such as schizophrenia, anxiety, and agitation.
• Migraine Headaches: Prochlorperazine can be utilized to manage severe migraine headaches and associated symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosage and duration of Prochlorperazine treatment depend on the specific condition being treated, the patient’s response to the medication, and individual health factors. It’s essential to follow the prescribed instructions provided by the healthcare professional. Here are some general guidelines for using Prochlorperazine:

• Dosage: The dosage of Prochlorperazine varies based on the condition being treated. It’s important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
• Formulation: Prochlorperazine is available in various forms, including oral tablets, rectal suppositories, and injectable forms. The form prescribed depends on the specific needs of the patient.
• Timing: It’s typically taken with or without food, but consistency is key. If you’re prescribed a regular schedule, try to take the medication at the same time each day.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Prochlorperazine, as it can enhance drowsiness and impair coordination.
• Do Not Suddenly Stop: Abruptly stopping Prochlorperazine can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If discontinuation is necessary, it should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are crucial to monitor the medication’s effectiveness and manage any potential side effects.

It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have before starting Prochlorperazine. They can provide personalized guidance and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal safety and efficacy. Never self-adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary uses for treating nausea, vomiting, mental/mood disorders, and migraine headaches, Prochlorperazine may be prescribed off-label for other conditions at the discretion of a healthcare professional. Off-label use means that the medication is being used for a purpose not approved by regulatory authorities but based on clinical judgment and evidence. Off-label uses of Prochlorperazine may include the management of intractable hiccups, vertigo, and certain types of severe anxiety or agitation.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Prochlorperazine:

• Medical History: Before taking Prochlorperazine, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of liver or kidney problems, heart issues, seizures, blood disorders, or if you’ve had a recent heart attack.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to Prochlorperazine or other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Prochlorperazine may pass into breast milk, and its safety during pregnancy is not well-established.
• Elderly Population: Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Prochlorperazine, especially the risk of falls due to dizziness or low blood pressure.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Prochlorperazine may cause drowsiness and impair concentration. Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Other Medications: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Prochlorperazine, and inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, that you are taking.
• Heat Exposure: Prochlorperazine may interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, potentially leading to heat stroke. Avoid overheating, dehydration, and prolonged exposure to hot weather.
• Eye Exams: Regular eye exams may be recommended, as Prochlorperazine can cause eye-related side effects.
• Diabetes: Prochlorperazine may affect blood sugar levels. Monitor blood glucose closely if you have diabetes, and inform your healthcare provider if there are significant changes.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about Prochlorperazine. If you experience unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Never self-adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication without consulting your healthcare professional.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Prochlorperazine. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced and healthy diet, especially if the medication is being used to manage conditions such as nausea and vomiting.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Oral Dose: If you miss a dose of Prochlorperazine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Missed Rectal Dose: If you miss a rectal suppository dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Missed Injectable Dose: If you miss an injection, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. Do not administer a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Prochlorperazine, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. If you are prescribed Prochlorperazine and notice any unusual or severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Common side effects may include:

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS):
  • Tremors
  • Restlessness
  • Stiffness
  • Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary, repetitive movements)
• Sedation and Drowsiness:
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Reduced alertness
• Orthostatic Hypotension:
  • Dizziness upon standing
  • Fainting
  • Low blood pressure
• Anticholinergic Effects:
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Constipation
  • Urinary retention
• Weight Gain:
  • Some individuals may experience weight gain.
• Endocrine Effects:
  • Hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin levels)
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Breast enlargement and lactation, especially in males
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): NMS is a rare but serious condition characterized by hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
• Blood Disorders:
  • Agranulocytosis (severe reduction in white blood cells)
  • Leukopenia (reduced white blood cell count)
• Seizures: Prochlorperazine may lower the seizure threshold, potentially increasing the risk of seizures in susceptible individuals.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Allergic reactions, ranging from mild skin rashes to more severe reactions.
• Elevated Liver Enzymes: Elevated liver enzymes may occur, and liver function should be monitored during prolonged use.
• Vision Changes: Changes in vision or eye-related side effects.

It’s important to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on whether the benefits of the medication outweigh the potential risks and may adjust the treatment plan accordingly. In some cases, the side effects may be temporary or manageable, while in others, a change in medication may be considered. Never discontinue or adjust the dosage of Prochlorperazine without consulting your healthcare provider.

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

Storage and Disposal of Prochlorperazine:

• Storage:
  • Store Prochlorperazine at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
  • Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
  • Follow specific storage instructions provided by the pharmacist or on the medication label.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so.
  • Follow local guidelines for medication disposal, which may include using drug take-back programs or returning medications to a pharmacy.
  • If no take-back program is available, mix Prochlorperazine with an undesirable substance (like cat litter or coffee grounds) in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it in the trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. The symptoms of Prochlorperazine overdose may include:

• Severe drowsiness
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Agitation
• Extrapyramidal symptoms (such as tremors and stiffness)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of your condition and to assess the medication’s effectiveness.
• Lab Tests: Periodic lab tests may be recommended to monitor blood counts, liver function, and other parameters.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Prochlorperazine, as it may interact with the medication.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Always inform other healthcare providers, including dentists and surgeons, about your Prochlorperazine use before undergoing any medical procedures.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Prochlorperazine, as it may enhance sedative effects.
• Inform About Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, that you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Sun Exposure: Prochlorperazine may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Use sunscreen and protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and contact them if you have any concerns or questions about Prochlorperazine. If you experience severe side effects or a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.