Prochlorperazineisusedto treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia
It is alsousedto treat anxiety, and to control severe nausea and vomiting
Mechanism of Action
Prochlorperazine belongs to a class of medication called phenothiazines
It acts on the central nervous system by blocking certain receptors (dopamine) thus producing an antipsychotic and anti-vomiting effect
Dosage
Nausea and Vomiting - Oral Dosage -Tablets: Take one 5 mg or 10 mg tablet 3 or 4 times daily
Rectal Dosage - 25 mg twice daily
I.M. Dosage -Initially 5 to 10 mg (1 to 2 mL) injected deeply
Adult Psychiatric Disorders- Oral Dosage: The recommended dosage is 5 mg 3 or 4 times daily
Side Effects
Sensitivity to light
Menstrual problems
Sexual impotency in men
State of confusion or disorientation
Dementia in the elderlY
Swelling in the breasts in both males and females
Tremor
Sleeping problems
Difficulty in breathing
Low blood pressure while standing
Blood clotting in the legs causing swelling and pain
Dryness of the mouth
Drowsiness
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Milk secretion in women
Uncontrolled movement of face or tongue or arms
Dizziness
Vision problems
Agitation
Blocked nose
Rigidity of muscles
Warnings/Precautions
Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart disease, central nervous system depression, liver problems, low blood pressure, increased eye pressure, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, bone marrow depression, involuntary muscle movements, Parkinson disease, Reye syndrome, prostate enlargement, seizures, alcoholism, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding
It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication